The college years are often a time when kids experiment with freedom and being on their own. It is known that this is also a time when college students get exposed to drinking large amounts of alcohol or even experimenting with drugs. This can be a scary time for parents when thinking about their young adults being on their own for the first time and all the possible dangers. Make sure and talk to your kids about the dangers and also what resources are available if they need drug addiction help in Kansas, especially during their college years.
Another concern is students using drugs to stay awake, study more, and be able to concentrate for longer periods of time. Stress is a huge catalyst for drug use and subsequent addiction, according to treatment centers in Kansas. Without the benefit of family or friends nearby, students can feel very isolated and alone.
This is why it’s a good idea to talk to your college-age young adult about the pressures of drugs and alcohol in college. Let them know how pressure and stress can play a role in addiction. Also, share where they could get drug addiction help in Kansas if they find themselves in this spot. Here are some helpful tips for college students to avoid being over-stressed, which can lead to addiction.
Develop a Support Group
There are many groups, activities, and resources on most college campuses. Encourage your student to get plugged into one or several to build relationships. The good part is all these young adults are away from their support systems, so they all need someone to turn to. With everyone being in similar situations, it’s easier to start making friends and getting plugged into a sound support system.
Make Sure They Have a Solid Self-Care Plan in Place Before College
Everyone should have certain activities or habits that lower their stress level and help them deal with uncomfortable situations. This can be as simple as sipping a favorite cup of tea, writing in a journal, or going for a run. Whatever it is that helps you lower stress, do it. It’s different for everyone, so make sure and have a handful of ideas ready to go for when your stress level rises.
Eat a Healthy Diet and Get Plenty of Sleep
It’s usually the case that when college students get their first taste of freedom, they eat whatever they want and go to bed whenever they feel like it. This can be hard on the body and mind over time. Talk to your young adult about the importance of eating healthy, moving their bodies, and getting enough sleep. They should be getting at least 8 hours of sleep daily to maintain their health, according to a leading addiction treatment center in Kansas.
At Gold Bridge Treatment Center, we are one of the top rehab facilities in Kansas and understand the complexity of substance abuse and addictive behaviors. This is why we believe in a multifaceted and individualized approach to treatment and recovery. Reach out to our drug and alcohol inpatient treatment center in Kansas to get more information on resources available to you or your loved one.
Call us at (913) 675-2898 or fill out a contact form to learn more about how you can start your journey toward sobriety today.