Co-occurring mental and behavioral health conditions among collegiate recovery program members

Abstract

Objective: This study describes the mental and behavioral health histories and treatment utilization among students enrolled in Collegiate Recovery Programs (CRPs), college-based supports for students who are in recovery from substance use or other comorbid disorders. Participants: Participants were 861 college students enrolled in five CRPs across the United States (44% female, 89% white, 91% undergraduate). Methods: De-identified student data, collected from 2019–2020, were harmonized and descriptively analyzed. Results: A majority of CRP students reported mental health and substance use treatment histories. Approximately one-third reported a history of eating disorders or other compulsive behaviors (46%) and 69% reported histories of mental health concerns. Results indicated a complex history of mental health and substance use recovery needs among students. Conclusions: Students attending CRPs reported a wide range of mental and behavioral health concerns in addition to substance use disorders, highlighting the need for continued support for these students’ recovery and well-being at higher education institutions.