As a parent, you have a lot of things that you may be worried about when your child goes to college. Parents often worry about the choices their children are going to make, the social groups they will be involved with and much more.
For example, perhaps you have heard stories about how drugs are popular on college campuses and how they are often used recreationally and socially. You’re concerned that your child, who has never been involved with drugs while living at home and going to high school, is going to find themself facing a lot of new opportunities. This could lead to some legal violations that may jeopardize their future.
So, what are the odds that a college is actually using these illegal substances? Is it just a common cliché about college life, or is there some truth to it?
Drugs and alcohol
Some studies have asked college students if they will use drugs or binge drink a minimum of once a month. There are 5.4 million college students in the United States, and studies report that about 50% of them admit to doing this. That being said, these studies are focused on drugs and alcohol, and alcohol use is more common than recreational drug use.
The opioid epidemic
Another thing to consider is the rising opioid epidemic, as these reports also indicate that prescription painkiller abuse is on the rise. In the worst cases, this can be fatal when someone overdoses, but many people use these medications illegally every week without such ramifications. While these painkillers are very effective at treating people in hospital settings, they can be used to get high on a recreational basis.
Many college students think that using these substances is fun and exciting at first, but it can lead to dangerous levels of abuse or criminal charges. If your student is facing these types of charges, be sure you know exactly what legal options you have to protect their future.
