Collegiate Recovery Programs (CRPs) remain an innovative model to provide recovery support for college students experiencing Substance Use Disorder (SUD). Although the number of available CRPs is increasing nationwide, additional research that documents the efficacy and benefit of these programs remains valuable. As such, a recent article aimed to evaluate the reasons college students enrolled in a CRP (as phase one of a larger study).  Study participants included consenting students enrolled in 1 of 29 CRPs across the United States (n=486). All participants completed an online survey where they self-reported drug and alcohol use history, perceived harm from substance use and perceived benefit from recovery support, as well as CRP participation history and reasons for enrollment. Study participants cited multiple reasons for enrolling in a CRP, yet the top three reasons reported include:

  • Need for a peer network of support (56%)
  • Safe place to recover while pursuing academic goals (31%)
  • Opportunity to help others and give back (14%)

Take Away: This article summarizes the most commonly reported reasons for enrolling in a CRP, but it also reports the impact CRPs have on college admissions. For example, prior to applying to the university, 29% of study participants inquired about an established CRP. Out of this group, 72% indicated they would have not enrolled in their select institution without its presence. In addition, 34% of the study participants believed they would not be attending college without the support of a CRP. Universities must recognize the importance of supporting college students in recovery, and CRPs serve as one effective approach toward providing this support.

 

Laudet, A. B., Harris, K., Kimball, T., Winters, K. C., & Moberg, D. P. (2016). In college and in recovery: Reasons for joining a Collegiate Recovery Program. Journal of American College Health64(3), 238-246.