The research team (pictured) believe that University
of Canberra students' alcohol consumption is not
atypical of other uni campuses.
Student alcohol intake at the University of Canberra, although high, is not atypical of other university campuses, according to new research.
The research, titled Assessing and addressing student alcohol use on campus underlined the main reasons given for alcohol intake by the student drinking population, including socialisation, to relax and relieve stress, and because they’re bored.
“The University of Canberra, like other tertiary institutions, is concerned about the safety and well-being of its students,” said researcher Dr Amanda George of the Healthpact Research Centre. “Our research is addressing this issue and exploring ways to reduce harmful levels of consumption and alcohol-related harms.”
The research team, comprised of Dr Amanda George, Dr Rhian Parker, Associate Professor Katja Mikhailovich, and Professor Debra Rickwood, found 86 per cent of UC students are drinkers, and around half those drink at hazardous levels. The findings, based on a sample of 1,151 students who completed an online survey, are not surprising according to Dr George, who says targeting the reasons for drinking may help students.
“We are currently reviewing the results of the findings in order to make appropriate recommendations and develop strategies to try and reduce problematic alcohol use and associated harms on campus,” Dr George said. Likely recommendations include the introduction of alcohol-free social events and a cafe, and an information campaign to increase student awareness of the counselling services available on campus.
Head of UC Counselling Service Jeannie Gray said that while the number of students currently accessing health and counselling services on campus is high, very few students in the 18-25 age group acknowledge having alcohol problems.
Non-drinkers also participated in the research and reported that the effects of alcohol witnessed by them included verbal abuse, damage to campus property, and drink driving. Interestingly, broken glass on campus, a major concern to non-drinkers, didn’t worry students who regularly consumed alcohol.
“We believe an integrated approach of assistance at all levels within the University community is the best way to address this issue,” Dr George said.
Editor's Note: Original news release can be found here.
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