Recognizing Addiction in College Students: What Texas Tech Students Should Know
College is a time of growth, exploration, and new experiences. But for many students at Texas Tech University and across the country, it's also a period of increased vulnerability to substance abuse and addiction. Understanding the warning signs can make all the difference in getting help early.
Why College Students Are at Higher Risk
The transition to college brings unprecedented freedom, academic pressure, and social challenges. For Texas Tech students, these factors can create the perfect storm for substance abuse issues:
- Academic Pressure: The demanding coursework and competitive environment can lead students to use stimulants like Adderall or Vyvanse without a prescription
- Social Environment: Greek life, parties, and social gatherings often normalize heavy drinking and drug use
- Mental Health Challenges: Anxiety, depression, and stress may drive students to self-medicate with alcohol or drugs
- Easy Access: Substances are often readily available on and around campus
- Identity Formation: Students are still developing their sense of self and may be more susceptible to peer pressure
The Reality at Texas Tech
According to national surveys, approximately 1 in 5 college students meets the criteria for substance use disorder. At a university the size of Texas Tech, that translates to thousands of students who may be struggling silently with addiction.
Warning Signs of Substance Abuse
Recognizing the signs early can be crucial. Whether you're concerned about yourself or a friend, watch for these indicators:
Academic Warning Signs
- Declining grades or sudden drop in academic performance
- Frequent absences from class or missing assignments
- Difficulty concentrating or completing coursework
- Loss of interest in academic goals or future plans
- Falling asleep in class or appearing intoxicated
Physical Warning Signs
- Changes in appearance or neglecting personal hygiene
- Bloodshot eyes, dilated or constricted pupils
- Sudden weight loss or gain
- Frequent nosebleeds or runny nose (not from allergies)
- Tremors, slurred speech, or impaired coordination
- Changes in sleep patterns (insomnia or excessive sleeping)
- Frequent illnesses or seeming run down
Behavioral Warning Signs
- Withdrawal from friends, family, or social activities
- Sudden change in friend groups or only hanging out with people who use substances
- Secretive behavior or lying about whereabouts
- Financial problems or frequently asking to borrow money
- Missing personal items or valuables (selling for drug money)
- Legal problems, including DUIs or possession charges
- Increased risk-taking or reckless behavior
Emotional Warning Signs
- Mood swings, irritability, or angry outbursts
- Increased anxiety or paranoia
- Depression or loss of motivation
- Personality changes or seeming like a different person
- Lack of interest in activities that were once enjoyed
- Defensive when questioned about substance use
Common Substances Among College Students
Understanding what substances are most commonly abused can help with recognition:
- Alcohol: The most widely abused substance, often leading to binge drinking patterns
- Marijuana: Increasingly common with legalization trends, but still carries risks
- Prescription Stimulants: Adderall, Vyvanse, Ritalin used without prescription for studying
- Cocaine and other stimulants: Used recreationally at parties or to stay awake
- Opioids: Pain medications that can lead to dependency and overdose
- Benzodiazepines: Xanax, Klonopin used to manage anxiety or enhance other substances
- Hallucinogens: LSD, mushrooms, and designer drugs used recreationally
The Impact on Academic Performance and Well-Being
Substance abuse doesn't just affect the body—it has far-reaching consequences on every aspect of a student's life:
Academic Consequences
Students struggling with addiction often experience declining GPAs, increased likelihood of dropping out, and missed opportunities for internships and graduate school. The cognitive impairment caused by substance abuse makes it difficult to learn, retain information, and perform well on exams.
Physical Health Risks
Long-term substance abuse can lead to liver damage, heart problems, respiratory issues, and increased risk of infectious diseases. Overdose is also a serious risk, particularly with opioids and alcohol poisoning.
Mental Health Deterioration
Substance abuse often co-occurs with mental health disorders like depression and anxiety, creating a vicious cycle. Students may develop new mental health issues or worsen existing conditions through substance use.
Social and Relationship Problems
Addiction strains relationships with family and friends, isolates students from healthy social connections, and can lead to involvement in toxic or dangerous social circles.
How to Help Someone Showing Warning Signs
If you're concerned about a friend, roommate, or classmate, here's what you can do:
- Express Concern Without Judgment: Approach the person privately and share specific observations you've made. Use "I" statements like "I'm worried about you because I've noticed..."
- Listen More Than You Talk: Let them share their perspective and feelings without interrupting or lecturing
- Offer Support and Resources: Let them know they're not alone and that help is available. Share information about campus and community resources
- Don't Enable: Avoid making excuses for their behavior, lending money, or covering up for them
- Get Professional Help if Needed: If the situation is serious, contact campus counseling services or reach out to their family
- Take Care of Yourself: Supporting someone with addiction can be emotionally draining. Make sure you have your own support system
When It's an Emergency
Call 911 immediately if someone:
- Has passed out and can't be awakened
- Is having trouble breathing
- Has a seizure
- Is talking about suicide or self-harm
- Shows signs of overdose (slow breathing, blue lips, unresponsive)
Resources for Texas Tech Students
If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, there are resources available:
On Campus
- Student Counseling Center: Free and confidential mental health and substance abuse counseling
- Student Health Services: Medical evaluation and referrals for treatment
- Dean of Students Office: Support and resources for students in crisis
In Lubbock Community
- Lubbock Addiction Clinic: Specialized addiction treatment and recovery support tailored for college students and young adults
- Local AA/NA Meetings: Free support groups throughout Lubbock
- Crisis Hotline: 24/7 support at 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
Recovery Is Possible
The most important thing to know is that addiction is treatable, and recovery is possible. Students who seek help can return to successful academic and personal lives. Early intervention is key—the sooner someone gets help, the better the outcome.
If you're struggling with substance abuse, know that reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Your future is worth fighting for, and there are people ready to support you every step of the way.
Don't let addiction derail your college experience or your future. Take that first step toward recovery today.
Get Confidential Help Today
Our Red Raider owned clinic specializes in helping Texas Tech students overcome addiction and reclaim their academic and personal goals. Confidential consultations available.