Use social media to reduce on‐campus drinking and support at‐risk students

Abstract

A report released by Boston University's School of Public Health explores the potential uses of social media and mobile or Web interventions as methods for reducing student drinking and encouraging better habits. Alcohol consumption at colleges and universities is associated with the majority of student injuries and deaths on campuses. Heavy drinking in college is also commonly linked to alcohol dependence later in life, making early intervention a primary goal for administrators and health professionals. The study examines the benefits of using various forms of new media to educate and communicate with students to prevent the short‐term dangers of heavy drinking as well as the long‐term risk of alcohol dependence.