Factors Associated With Alcohol and Substance Use in Bereaved College and University Students

Abstract

Experiencing the death of a loved one increases the risk of developing mental health problems. Students are vulnerable to developing mental health problems, to which substance use can contribute. Still, few studies have examined substance use in bereaved students. Using an online survey, we collected data about the impact of the death of a loved one on Belgian students’ (N = 666) substance use. Using regression analysis we examined its relation to social support, grief, mental health and personal growth. A significant number of students indicated that the death affected their substance use. Feelings of grief and mental health distress played a significant role in students whose substance use..