A survey administered in 2021 determined that 8.5% of adolescents age 12 to 17 years old met criteria for substance use disorder (SUD). SUD among adolescents can have detrimental and long-term impacts on one’s educational goals. Additionally, only 3.5% of youth with SUD receive the support required to treat their disorder. Even those who receive treatment are faced with challenges following high school graduation like transitioning to college. The transition from high school to college is a time of great stress especially for those who are in recovery. Therefore, it is imperative that young adults in recovery are informed of support options available for them in college. This study examines perceived barriers and facilitators to postsecondary education among high school students in recovery.
The study’s sample consisted of 10 high school students from Massachusetts-based recovery high schools. Students were recruited from three schools and were in their final year or two of high school. Participants completed a small group interview focused on next steps after graduating high school. Questions were focused on factors students were considering with respect to college and concerns that they had about the process and plan. Data was analyzed using a deductive qualitative content analytic technique to examine themes that emerged from the student-based discussions.
Through the data analysis four themes emerged regarding barriers and facilitators to college: financial concerns, stigma related to addition, the fragility of sobriety, and the importance of social support. In regards to financial concerns, students expressed worry over the cost of college leading many to consider community college or off-campus housing. Subthemes that emerged from stigma related to addition were disclosing recovery status on college applications and once at school. Many participants reported that they were not comfortable disclosing their recovery status due to societal stigma around substance abuse. Students also expressed concerns regarding the fragility of sobriety and the likelihood of encountering others using substances in the college environment. Living in dorms among students using substances was a particular area of concern. Lastly, students recognized the importance of having support systems in place on campus to have a successful college experience.
Takeaway: Potential barriers to a successful college experience among those in recovery are financial concerns, stigma related to addition, the fragility of sobriety, and the importance of social support.