Exploring the Relationship Between Nonmedical Use of Prescription Drugs and Depression/Anxiety Among College Students

• In Event: Predicting and Explaining Drug Use

Abstract

The nonmedical use of prescription drugs (NMUPD) on college campuses has become an increasingly important issue, as the prevalence of use has increased over the last decade. College students tend to engage in NMUPD more often than their same-age peers not attending college. Due to the increases in NMUPD among college students, researchers have studied the demographic and background characteristics of users as well as correlates of use. Typical correlates of NMUPD include need for alertness, perception of peer use, desire to get high, and use of other drugs including alcohol and marijuana. Few studies have explored the relationship between NMUPD and depression or anxiety among college students. The current study aims to add to the literature on NMUPD by exploring the role that depression and anxiety play in the prevalence of nonmedical prescription stimulant, tranquilizer, and pain reliever use at a mid-sized university.

Authors

• Riane Bolin, Radford University

• Margaret Pate, Radford University