Student alcohol and drug abuse: what can staff do?
It’s vital that universities are able to recognise the signs of alcohol and drug misuse in students. Staff also have an important role to play in talking about substance use. ‘That one conversation can make a difference’, says Jitske Hoogervorst, an adviser at Brijder addiction treatment services.
Hi Jitske, why is substance use such a big part of student life?
‘For many students, alcohol and drugs are a normal part of their social lives. At the same time, university is a time of great change and can be stressful. Drinking or using drugs can become a way to relax or feel like you belong. Many students regularly drink more than is good for them, and the 2025 Monitor on Mental Health and Substance Use among Students in Higher Education shows that around one in four students are at risk of alcohol use disorder. Students who feel down, have trouble sleeping or are under a lot of stress are more likely to turn to alcohol or drugs. The risk is that their use gradually increases and begins to affect their studies, mental health and relationships. That’s why recognising the warning signs and talking about them is so important.’
How are Brijder and Leiden University addressing this?
‘Brijder supports students and staff with questions about alcohol and drug use. Since October 2025, we have been offering free drop-in sessions at Plexus Student Centre for anyone who is struggling or who just wants to talk about substance use. This could be for personal reasons, but also if you are concerned about someone else. We also provide training for staff and student boards and organisations, and we advise on policy and specific situations. Anyone is welcome to get in touch with us.’
‘The main thing is: if you notice something or if things feel different from usual, take this seriously.’
How can teaching staff or student counsellors recognise potentially problematic use?
‘There’s no single profile for this, but the signs can include frequently missing classes, having difficulty concentrating or falling behind academically. Clear changes in behaviour or looking tired or unkempt can also be an indication. The main thing is: if you notice something or if things feel different from usual, take this seriously. Sometimes just letting a student know you’re there if they want to talk is the best thing you can do.’
How should you talk to students about this?
‘Keep it simple and human. You don’t need to be an expert. Paying attention and showing you care are important first steps in themselves. For example, you might say: “Hey, you seem to be struggling a bit lately. Is that right?” Or “I’ve seen you’ve been absent quite often over the past weeks. How are things?” If you suspect substance use may be a factor, you can cautiously mention this with a question like: “I sometimes see students drinking heavily or using drugs when things aren’t going so well. Could that be happening with you?” What also helps is describing what you see, without judgement and asking open questions. So, for example: “You’ve missed recent deadlines and seem very tired” or “What are you up to at the moment?” Listen without immediately offering solutions and allow silences to give the student space to think. Finally, acknowledge what the student says: “It sounds like that’s asking a lot of you.”
‘Your role is not to convince the student, but to open up a conversation.’
Not everyone is open to change. Resistance or minimising the situation is common. Your role is not to convince the student, but to open up a conversation. One conversation can already make a difference.’
Where can staff refer students for support?
‘You can refer students to the Plexus drop-in sessions, where they can speak confidentially with one of our experts, without needing a referral.’
You offer the ‘Alcohol and Substance Use in Students’ training for staff. What does this involve?
‘The training is practical and focused on real-life situations. The aim is to help you feel more confident about taking action if you are concerned about a student. You learn how to recognise warning signs and how to start a conversation as well as what your role does and does not entail and where you can turn for support.’
Is there anything else you would like staff to know?
‘It doesn’t have to be perfect. If you notice something, just start a conversation. We’re not here to ban students from using alcohol and drugs, but to support conscious, responsible use and to explore together what helps. If you’re unsure, please get in touch or sign up for one of our training sessions.’
Tekst: Jitske Verhagen