1
|
Pueyo-Garrigues M, Carver H, Parr A, Lavilla-Gracia M, Alfaro-Díaz C, Esandi-Larramendi N, Canga-Armayor N. Effectiveness of web-based personalised feedback interventions for reducing alcohol consumption among university students: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Drug Alcohol Rev 2024; 43:1204-1225. [PMID: 38596854 DOI: 10.1111/dar.13848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Revised: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
ISSUES Meta-analysis was conducted to examine standalone web-based personalised feedback interventions (PFI) delivered in non-structured settings for reducing university students' alcohol consumption. Subgroup analyses by gender-focus, type-of-content and accessibility were conducted. Characteristics of the sample, the intervention and study quality were examined as moderators. APPROACH Ten databases were searched from 2000 to 2023. Eligible articles involved only randomised controlled trials. Random-effects meta-analysis was conducted to calculate the effect size on weekly alcohol consumption comparing web-PFIs and non-active controls. Meta-regressions were applied to explore effect moderators. KEY FINDINGS Thirty-one studies were included in the narrative synthesis, 25 of which were meta-analysed. Results found significant effect size differences on weekly alcohol consumption in favour of the intervention group in the short- (SMD = 0.11, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.06, 0.15) and long-term period (SMD = 0.09, 95% CI 0.02, 0.15). Subgroup analyses identified that interventions which were gender-specific, multicomponent and had unlimited access had higher and significant effect sizes, although they were very similar with respect to comparative groups. Moderator analyses showed that times feedback was accessed significantly contributed to the effectiveness of the intervention. Effects diminished over time, although they remained significant. IMPLICATIONS The meta-analysis evidences the effectiveness of web-PFI for addressing university students' alcohol use, decreasing by 1.65 and 1.54 drinks consumed per week in the short- and long-term, respectively. CONCLUSIONS The results offer empirical evidence that supports the significant, although small, effect of web-PFI delivered remotely in universities. Future research should focus on increasing their impact by introducing booster sessions and content components based on students' preferences.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- María Pueyo-Garrigues
- Department of Community, Maternity and Pediatric Nursing, School of Nursing, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- IdiSNA, Navarra Institute for Health Research, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Hannah Carver
- Salvation Army Centre for Addiction Services and Research, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling, United Kingdom
| | - Amy Parr
- Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling, United Kingdom
| | - María Lavilla-Gracia
- Department of Community, Maternity and Pediatric Nursing, School of Nursing, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- IdiSNA, Navarra Institute for Health Research, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Cristina Alfaro-Díaz
- IdiSNA, Navarra Institute for Health Research, Pamplona, Spain
- School of Nursing, Department of Nursing Care for Adult Patients, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Nuria Esandi-Larramendi
- IdiSNA, Navarra Institute for Health Research, Pamplona, Spain
- School of Nursing, Department of Nursing Care for Adult Patients, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Navidad Canga-Armayor
- Department of Community, Maternity and Pediatric Nursing, School of Nursing, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- IdiSNA, Navarra Institute for Health Research, Pamplona, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Hajduk M, Tiedemann E, Romanos M, Simmenroth A. Neuroenhancement and mental health in students from four faculties - a cross-sectional questionnaire study. GMS JOURNAL FOR MEDICAL EDUCATION 2024; 41:Doc9. [PMID: 38504866 PMCID: PMC10946206 DOI: 10.3205/zma001664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
Background Students face great challenges at the beginning of and during their studies. Competitive experience, exam anxiety, and especially the new performance requirements often cause test anxiety and stressful experiences. The extent of substance use in terms of neuroenhancement (NE) is unclear. Evidence shows associations between NE, increased stress levels, and mental health. Objectives We aim to determine the prevalence of NE and alcohol and tobacco use among college students. We also investigate the associations between NE and ADHD, anxiety, depression, and stress experience. Methods In spring 2021, an anonymous online cross-sectional survey was conducted among students of medicine, dentistry, business economics, and business informatics in Würzburg. The survey included the instruments ASRS (ADHD), PSS-10 (stress), PHQ-4 (depression and anxiety), and AUDIT-C (alcohol comsumption), as well as questions about consumption patterns, prior knowledge, and reasons for NE. Results Of the 5564 students who were invited to participate, 1010 completed the questionnaire (18.2%). Of these, 12.4% indicated NE for the studied period. NE was used in particular during preparations for exams, to enhance performance, and/or to regulate emotions, most commonly through caffeine tablets, cannabis, and methylphenidate. NE was associated with risky use of alcohol or tobacco, and to a lesser extent with ADHD symptoms and stress experience.Conclusions: Students are at risk of substance abuse and NE. Effective stress management and prevention approaches as well as low-threshold services are needed to identify and support students with risk profiles.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maurice Hajduk
- University Medical Centre Würzburg, Institute of General Practice, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Elena Tiedemann
- University Medical Centre Würzburg, Institute of General Practice, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Marcel Romanos
- University Medical Centre Würzburg, Clinic and Polyclinic for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Anne Simmenroth
- University Medical Centre Würzburg, Institute of General Practice, Würzburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Bertholet N, Schmutz E, Studer J, Adam A, Gmel G, Cunningham JA, McNeely J, Daeppen JB. Effect of a smartphone intervention as a secondary prevention for use among university students with unhealthy alcohol use: randomised controlled trial. BMJ 2023; 382:e073713. [PMID: 37586742 PMCID: PMC10428135 DOI: 10.1136/bmj-2022-073713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To estimate the effects of providing access to an alcohol intervention based on a smartphone. DESIGN Randomised controlled trial.. SETTING Four higher education institutions in Switzerland. PARTICIPANTS 1770 students (≥18 years) who screened positive for unhealthy alcohol use (ie, a score on the alcohol use disorders identification test-consumption (AUDIT-C) of ≥4 for men and ≥3 for women) were randomly assigned by 1:1 allocation ratio in blocks of 10. INTERVENTION Providing access to a brief, smartphone based alcohol intervention. OUTCOME MEASURES The primary outcome studied was number of standard drinks per week at six months and the secondary outcome was number of heavy drinking days (past 30 days). Additional outcomes were maximum number of drinks consumed on one occasion, alcohol related consequences, and academic performance. Follow-up assessments occurred at months three, six, and 12. Data were analysed by intention to treat and by using generalised linear mixed models with random intercepts for the recruitment site and participants nested within the recruitment site, and with intervention (v control), time (three months v six months; 12 months v six months), and baseline outcome values as fixed effects. RESULTS Between 26 April 26 2021 and 30 May 2022, 1770 participants (intervention group (n=884); control group (n=886)) were included. Mean age was 22.4 years (standard deviation 3.07); 958 (54.1%) were women; and 1169 (66.0%) were undergraduate students, 533 (30.1%) were studying for a master's degree, 43 (2.4%) were studying for a doctorate, and 25 (1.4%) were students of other higher education programme. The baseline mean number of standard drinks per week was 8.59 (standard deviation 8.18); the baseline number of heavy drinking days was 3.53 (4.02). Of 1770 participants, follow-up rates were 1706 (96.4%) at three months, 1697 (95.9%) at six months, and 1660 (93.8%) at 12 months. Of 884 students randomly assigned to the intervention group, 738 (83.5%) downloaded the smartphone application. The intervention had a significant overall effect on the number of standard drinks per week (incidence rate ratio 0.90 (95% confidence interval 0.85 to 0.96)), heavy drinking days (0.89 (0.83 to 0.96)), and the maximum number of drinks consumed on one occasion (0.96 (0.93 to 1.00), P=0.029), indicating significantly lower drinking outcomes in the intervention group than in the control group during the follow-up period. The intervention did not affect alcohol related consequences or academic performance. CONCLUSIONS Providing access to the smartphone application throughout the 12 month follow-up was effective at limiting the average drinking volume of university students who had self-reported unhealthy alcohol use at baseline. TRIAL REGISTRATION ISRCTN 10007691.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Bertholet
- Addiction Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Elodie Schmutz
- Addiction Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Joseph Studer
- Addiction Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Service of Adult Psychiatry North-West, Department of Psychiatry, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Angéline Adam
- Addiction Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Gerhard Gmel
- Addiction Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - John A Cunningham
- National Addiction Centre, King's College, London, UK
- Center for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Jennifer McNeely
- New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jean-Bernard Daeppen
- Addiction Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Doak S, Kearney JM, McCormack JM, Keaver L. The relationship between diet and lifestyle behaviours in a sample of higher education students; a cross-sectional study. Clin Nutr ESPEN 2023; 54:293-299. [PMID: 36963876 DOI: 10.1016/j.clnesp.2023.01.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/28/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Transitioning into higher education (HE) impacts health behaviours. Poor dietary and lifestyle behaviours may correlate and increase risk of co-morbidities. The introduction of the Okanagan Charter detailed the important role of health promotion within a HE setting. The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between dietary quality and lifestyle behaviours of students attending HE. METHODS Full-time students, aged 18+, were eligible to participate in this online cross-sectional study. Self-reported questions were asked in relation to demographics, body mass index (BMI), smoking, and COVID-19. A food frequency questionnaire measured dietary quality along with tools assessing alcohol use, sleep quality, perceived stress, and physical activity. Statistical analyses were performed using chi-square, one-way ANOVA, independent sample t-tests, Pearson's correlation, and multivariate linear regression. RESULTS Evidence of a correlation between poor diet quality and having a higher BMI (p = 0.040), higher alcohol consumption (p = <0.001), poorer sleep quality (p = 0.003), higher stress levels (p = 0.006) and smoking (p = 0.001) was found. Low fruit and vegetable consumption were associated with higher BMI (p = 0.013), higher alcohol consumption (p = <0.001), lower physical activity levels (p = 0.006), higher stress levels (p = <0.001), smoking (p = <0.001) and being male (p = 0.002). CONCLUSIONS This study provides data on the association between dietary quality and lifestyle behaviours among HE students and will inform healthy campus initiatives.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephen Doak
- Department of Health and Nutritional Science, Atlantic Technological University, Ash Lane, Sligo F91 YW50, Ireland
| | - John M Kearney
- School of Biological and Health Sciences, Technological University Dublin, Dublin City Campus, Grangegorman, Dublin 7, Ireland
| | - Jacqueline M McCormack
- Vice President for Equality, Diversity & Inclusion and Online Development, Atlatnic Technological University, Ash Lane, Sligo F91 YW50, Ireland
| | - Laura Keaver
- Department of Health and Nutritional Science, Atlantic Technological University, Ash Lane, Sligo F91 YW50, Ireland.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Lukács A. Factors associated with risky alcohol consumption in Hungarian university students. JOURNAL OF SUBSTANCE USE 2023. [DOI: 10.1080/14659891.2023.2173100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Lukács
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Miskolc, Miskolc, Hungary
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Pitman A, Stevenson F, Osborn D. Investigating Whether Bereavement by Suicide and Other Unnatural Causes Has a Deterrent Effect on Alcohol or Drug Use in Young Adults. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:13245. [PMID: 36293834 PMCID: PMC9602713 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192013245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Revised: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Bereavement by suicide and other unnatural causes is associated with suicide but evidence regarding risk of substance misuse is inconsistent. This may be due to heterogeneity in patterns of alcohol or drug use after traumatic bereavement; some increasing use to cope with the loss and others reducing use. To highlight the problems of focussing on diagnostic thresholds when investigating substance use after traumatic loss, we aimed to test whether people bereaved by suicide or other unnatural causes are more likely to reduce or stop their substance use than people bereaved by sudden natural causes. Using multivariable logistic regression and data from an online survey of 1854 UK-based bereaved adults, we tested the association between bereavement by suicide and other unnatural causes and post-bereavement reduction/cessation in (i) alcohol and (ii) drug use. There were no group differences in the proportions who reduced/stopped alcohol use, but a significantly greater proportion of people bereaved by sudden unnatural causes reduced/stopped drug use post-bereavement than people bereaved by sudden natural causes (AOR = 2.61; 95% CI = 1.44-4.71; p = 0.001; 4.1% versus 1.7%). In sub-group analyses this applied separately to people bereaved by suicide and non-suicide unnatural causes. Research into post-bereavement substance use should accommodate apparent divergent sub-diagnostic patterns.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Pitman
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London (UCL), London W1T 7NF, UK
- Camden and Islington NHS Foundation Trust, London NW1 0PE, UK
| | - Fiona Stevenson
- Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London (UCL), London NW3 2PF, UK
| | - David Osborn
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London (UCL), London W1T 7NF, UK
- Camden and Islington NHS Foundation Trust, London NW1 0PE, UK
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
del Palacio-Gonzalez A, Pedersen MU. Youth's personal relationships, psychological symptoms, and the use of different substances: A population-based study. NORDIC STUDIES ON ALCOHOL AND DRUGS 2021; 39:322-337. [PMID: 35720520 PMCID: PMC9152235 DOI: 10.1177/14550725211050768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Externalising symptoms and peer influence are
well-established predictors of youth's substance use in general. However, there
is little integrative research that compares the relative contribution of
psychological and social relationship characteristics as predictors of the use
of specific substances among youth in different developmental stages.
Methods: A representative sample of Danish adolescents
(n = 1,168) and emerging adults (EA;
n = 1,878) reported last-month prevalence use of cigarettes,
cannabis, and other illicit drugs (OID), and four indices of alcohol use.
Predictor variables included internalising and externalising symptoms, and major
characteristics of the youth's relationships (e.g., parental drug use, number of
close friends). Results: Having a close friend who used illicit
drugs, and high externalising symptoms, predicted the risk for using all
substances across both age groups. Alcohol use was more consistently related to
peer-related variables than to symptoms. Smoking cigarettes, cannabis use, and
OIDs use were related to peer and symptom variables. Age group moderated some
associations. Parental separation was related more strongly to alcohol use among
adolescents than among EA, and higher internalising symptoms were more strongly
related to smoking and using OIDs among adolescents than among EA. Male EAs had
higher risk for using alcohol than female EAs. Conclusion: Beyond
having a close friend who used illicit drugs, and externalising problems, the
use of each substance was better explained by a different group of variables.
There were few but important moderations by age group. The findings highlight
the need for research on risk factors for substance use that is developmentally
sensitive, particularly for adolescents, and for specific substances. Thus,
interventions and policies should address social, developmental, and
psychological factors.
Collapse
|
8
|
López-Moreno M, Garcés-Rimón M, Miguel M, Iglesias López MT. Adherence to Mediterranean Diet, Alcohol Consumption and Emotional Eating in Spanish University Students. Nutrients 2021; 13:3174. [PMID: 34579051 PMCID: PMC8466414 DOI: 10.3390/nu13093174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2021] [Revised: 09/02/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
(1) Introduction: The university period may increase the risk of different unhealthy habits, such as low adherence to the Mediterranean diet, high alcohol consumption and eating in response to specific emotions. The aim of this study was to detect early-risk alcohol consumption and alcohol dependence (ADS), the degree of adherence to the Mediterranean diet and emotional eating in university students of the Madrid community. (2) Methods: For each individual, anthropometric parameters, the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT), AUDIT-Consumption (AUDIT-C), the Mediterranean Diet Adherence Screener (MEDAS) and the Emotional Eater Questionnaire (EEQ) were assessed. (3) Results: A total of 584 university students aged 20.5 (sex ratio = 0.39) were enrolled in a cross-sectional study. In total, 63.6% of students showed low adherence to the Mediterranean diet, with no differences by sex (64.3% female versus 61.5% male, p = 0.19). According to the AUDIT questionnaire, 26.2% of participants were categorized as high-risk drinkers and 7.7% as ADS. About 38.6% of the students were categorized as eating very emotionally or eating emotionally, and 37.2% were categorized as low emotional eaters. A weak positive correlation was observed between the EEQ and BMI in female students (rho= 0.15, p = 0.03). (4) Conclusions: University students in our sample showed a low adherence to the Mediterranean diet, an important high-risk alcohol consumption and low emotional eating.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Miguel López-Moreno
- Instituto de Investigación en Ciencias de Alimentación, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28049 Madrid, Spain; (M.L.-M.); (M.G.-R.); (M.M.)
- Grupo de Investigación en Biotecnología Alimentaria, Universidad Francisco de Vitoria, 28223 Madrid, Spain
| | - Marta Garcés-Rimón
- Instituto de Investigación en Ciencias de Alimentación, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28049 Madrid, Spain; (M.L.-M.); (M.G.-R.); (M.M.)
- Grupo de Investigación en Biotecnología Alimentaria, Universidad Francisco de Vitoria, 28223 Madrid, Spain
| | - Marta Miguel
- Instituto de Investigación en Ciencias de Alimentación, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28049 Madrid, Spain; (M.L.-M.); (M.G.-R.); (M.M.)
| | | |
Collapse
|
9
|
Marcon G, de Ávila Pereira F, Zimerman A, da Silva BC, von Diemen L, Passos IC, Recamonde-Mendoza M. Patterns of high-risk drinking among medical students: A web-based survey with machine learning. Comput Biol Med 2021; 136:104747. [PMID: 34449306 DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiomed.2021.104747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Revised: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 08/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prior studies have found increased rates of alcohol consumption among physicians and medical students. The present study aims to build machine learning (ML) models to identify patterns of high-risk drinking (HRD), including alcohol use disorder, within this population. METHODS We analyzed data collected through a web-based survey among Brazilian medical students. Variables included sociodemographic data, personal information, university status, and mental health. Stratification for HRD was carried out based on the AUDIT-C scores. Three ML algorithms were used to build classifiers to predict HRD among medical students: elastic net regularization, random forest, and artificial neural networks. Model interpretation techniques were adopted to assess the most influential predictors for models' decisions, which represent potential factors associated with HRD. RESULTS A total of 4840 medical students were included in the study. The prevalence of HRD was 53.03%. The three ML models built were able to distinguish individuals with HRD from low-risk drinking (LRD) with very similar performance. The average AUC scores in the cross-validation procedure were around 0.72, and this performance was replicated in the test set. The most important features for the ML models were the use of tobacco and cannabis, monthly family income, marital status, sexual orientation, and physical activities. CONCLUSIONS This study proposes that ML models may serve as tools for initial screening of students regarding their susceptibility for at-risk drinking or alcohol use disorder. In addition, we identified several key factors associated with HRD that could be further investigated and explored for preventive and assistance measures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Grasiela Marcon
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Universidade Federal da Fronteira Sul, Brazil; Laboratory of Molecular Psychiatry, Centro de Pesquisa Experimental (CPE) e Centro de Pesquisa Clínica (CPC), Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre (HCPA), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil; Graduate Program in Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
| | - Flávia de Ávila Pereira
- Institute of Informatics, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
| | - Aline Zimerman
- Laboratory of Molecular Psychiatry, Centro de Pesquisa Experimental (CPE) e Centro de Pesquisa Clínica (CPC), Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre (HCPA), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil; Graduate Program in Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
| | - Bruno Castro da Silva
- College of Information and Computer Sciences, University of Massachusetts (UMass), Amherst, MA, United States.
| | - Lisia von Diemen
- Graduate Program in Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil; Center for Drug and Alcohol Research, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre (HCPA), Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
| | - Ives Cavalcante Passos
- Laboratory of Molecular Psychiatry, Centro de Pesquisa Experimental (CPE) e Centro de Pesquisa Clínica (CPC), Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre (HCPA), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil; Graduate Program in Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
| | - Mariana Recamonde-Mendoza
- Institute of Informatics, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil; Bioinformatics Core, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre (HCPA), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Alcohol-Related Behaviour in Freshmen University Students in Sardinia, Italy. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18137203. [PMID: 34281140 PMCID: PMC8297276 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18137203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2021] [Revised: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
This study aims to provide a picture of University of Cagliari students’ alcohol-related behaviour and to explore factors associated with it. Data were collected by administering a questionnaire to 992 freshmen university students from different programs consisting of twelve closed questions, including three questions from the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test for Consumption (AUDIT-C short form). Three subgroups of alcohol-related behaviour were distinguished (risky drinkers, social drinkers and abstainers). In order to explore factors associated with patterns of alcohol consumption, a multivariate logistic regression was performed. The prevalence of risky drinkers was 35%. A binge-drinking behaviour at least once in the last twelve months was declared by 65% (more widespread in men and in students living away from their parents). Risky consumption is significantly associated with age of onset of alcohol use, living away from parents’ home, drinking outside meals and attending health courses. Regarding the levels of daily alcohol consumption perceived as a health risk, 66% of men and 88% of women indicate values higher than those recommended. The results underline the need for tailored prevention measures. University could be a promising setting to implement actions according to a health promotion perspective, to empower students to control their alcohol consumption.
Collapse
|
11
|
Cooke R, Bailey O, Jennings J, Yuen C, Gardner B. Do preparatory behaviours predict alcohol consumption among UK university students? Br J Health Psychol 2020; 26:343-359. [PMID: 33111469 DOI: 10.1111/bjhp.12489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2020] [Revised: 10/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study explored whether the frequency and habitual nature of engagement in three behaviours that may serve as preparation for alcohol consumption on a night out with friends - that is, contacting friends to arrange a night out, buying alcohol, drinking alone at home before going out - predicted consumption on such nights. DESIGN Prospective correlational design. METHODS One hundred and twenty UK university students (68 female, 50 male, two non-binary, mean age = 20.78 years, SD = 1.52) completed a survey comprising intentions, habits, and frequency and habit for the three preparatory behaviours. One week later, a second survey measured the number of nights out with friends on which alcohol was drunk (i.e., drinking frequency) and the number on which four or more alcoholic drinks were consumed (i.e, excessive drinking). Regression models were run to predict drinking frequency and excessive drinking. RESULTS Drinking frequency was predicted only by frequency of contacting friends (B = .28, SE = .12, p = .02), and habitually drinking alone before going out (B = .20, SE = .09, p = .03). Excessive drinking was only predicted by alcohol consumption habit (B = .67, SE = .23, p = .003). CONCLUSIONS Preceding actions may influence the frequency of alcohol consumption on nights out, independently of intentions and habits relating to alcohol consumption. While interventions to reduce consumption quantity in a single session might focus on disrupting the habits that sustain drinking episodes, efforts to reduce alcohol consumption frequency on nights out might focus on disrupting behaviours that precede alcohol consumption.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Richard Cooke
- Department of Psychology, Liverpool Centre for Alcohol Research, University of Liverpool, UK
| | | | | | - Chun Yuen
- Department of Psychology, King's College London, UK
| | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
Pitman A, Stevenson F, King M, Osborn D. Self-Reported Patterns of Use of Alcohol and Drugs After Suicide Bereavement and Other Sudden Losses: A Mixed Methods Study of 1,854 Young Bereaved Adults in the UK. Front Psychol 2020; 11:1024. [PMID: 32508727 PMCID: PMC7251259 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.01024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2020] [Accepted: 04/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bereavement, particularly by suicide, is associated with an excess risk of mortality and of physical and psychological morbidity. Use of alcohol as a coping mechanism is suggested as a contributing factor. However, studies describing substance use after bereavement rely on diagnostic data, lacking a more fine-grained understanding of patterns of substance use when grieving. We aimed to use mixed methods to compare patterns of substance use after bereavement by suicide and other sudden deaths among young adults in the UK. METHODS Using an online survey throughout 37 UK higher education institutions we collected free text responses from 1,854 young adults who had experienced sudden bereavement. We conducted content analysis of free text responses to an open question about patterns of alcohol and drug use following the bereavement, measuring frequencies of coded categories. Collapsing these categories into binary outcomes reflecting increased use of alcohol or drugs, we used multivariable logistic regression to quantify the associations between mode of bereavement and increased post-bereavement substance use. RESULTS Of 1,854 eligible respondents, 353 reported bereavement by suicide, 395 by accidental death, and 1,106 by sudden natural causes. The majority of the sample reported no increase in their use of alcohol (58%) or unprescribed drugs (85%) after the bereavement. Overall 33% had increased their alcohol use at some point after the bereavement, whilst 12% had increased their use of drugs. People bereaved by suicide were significantly more likely to describe an increase in substance use (adjusted OR = 1.29; 95% CI = 1.00-1.66; p = 0.049) than people bereaved by sudden natural causes, as were people bereaved by non-suicide unnatural deaths (adjusted OR = 1.32; 95% CI = 1.03-1.68; p = 0.026). CONCLUSION Just under half of young UK adults who experience sudden bereavement increase their alcohol use afterwards, and very few increase their use of drugs. People bereaved by suicide or non-suicide unnatural deaths may be more likely than people bereaved by sudden natural causes to use substances as part of the grieving process, and may have a greater need for monitoring of potential harms. Understanding the reasons for substance use will help primary care and bereavement practitioners screen and address needs appropriately.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Pitman
- UCL Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- Camden and Islington National Health Service (NHS) Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Fiona Stevenson
- UCL Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Michael King
- UCL Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - David Osborn
- UCL Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- Camden and Islington National Health Service (NHS) Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
El Ansari W, Salam A, Suominen S. Is Alcohol Consumption Associated with Poor Perceived Academic Performance? Survey of Undergraduates in Finland. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17041369. [PMID: 32093287 PMCID: PMC7068310 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17041369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2020] [Revised: 02/12/2020] [Accepted: 02/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The relationship between academic performance and alcohol consumption among students remains inconsistent. We assessed this relationship, controlling for sociodemographic characteristics across seven faculties at the University of Turku (1177 undergraduates). An online questionnaire assessed: seven sociodemographic characteristics (age, gender, year/discipline of study, accommodation type, being in intimate relationship, parental education, and income sufficiency); two perceived academic performance (students’ subjective importance of achieving good grades and students’ appraisal of their academic performance compared to peers); and six alcohol consumption behaviors (length of time, amount consumed, frequency, heavy episodic drinking, problem drinking, and possible alcohol dependence). Simple logistic regression assessed relationships between sociodemographic and academic variables with alcohol consumption behaviors; multiple logistic regression assessed the same relationships after controlling for all other variables. Students reported long duration and large amount of drinking (46% and 50%), high frequency of drinking (41%), heavy episodic drinking (66%), problem drinking (29%), and possible alcohol dependence (9%). After controlling, gender was associated with all alcohol consumption behaviors, followed by religiosity (associated with four alcohol behaviors), living situation, marital status, age (each associated with two alcohol behaviors), and parental education and year of study (each associated with one alcohol behavior). Study discipline, income sufficiency, importance of achieving good grades, and academic performance compared to peers were not associated with any alcohol behaviors. Universities need to assess problem drinking and alcohol use disorders among students. Prevention strategies are required to reduce risk. Health promotion efforts could focus on beliefs and expectations about alcohol and target student groups at risk for more efficient and successful efforts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Walid El Ansari
- Department of Surgery, Hamad General Hospital, Doha 3050, Qatar
- College of Medicine, Qatar University, Doha 3050, Qatar
- School of Health and Education, University of Skovde, 541 28 Skövde, Sweden;
- Correspondence:
| | - Abdul Salam
- Neuroscience Institute, Hamad General Hospital, Doha 3050, Qatar;
| | - Sakari Suominen
- School of Health and Education, University of Skovde, 541 28 Skövde, Sweden;
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Rodríguez-Muñoz PM, Carmona-Torres JM, Rodríguez-Borrego MA. Influence of tobacco, alcohol consumption, eating habits and physical activity in nursing students. Rev Lat Am Enfermagem 2020; 28:e3230. [PMID: 32022150 PMCID: PMC7000186 DOI: 10.1590/1518-8345.3198.3230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2018] [Accepted: 09/16/2019] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective: to determine the consumption of alcohol, tobacco, eating habits, and physical
activity among nursing students and to detect whether being a nursing
student is a protective factor against these habits. Method: a questionnaire was used to collect information on age, academic year, sex,
alcohol and tobacco consumption, physical activity, and healthy eating. An
information sheet and informed consent form were given. The sample was
composed of 264 students aged between 18-30 years from four academic years.
Results: of the total sample, 15.5% smoked, 83.7% consumed alcoholic beverages and
97.2% consumed over the weekend. The total of 68.6% did not practice
exercises and 70.5% needed changes in their diet. Conclusion: nursing students have high levels of alcohol consumption and low levels of
smoking compared with other studies. The higher the academic year, the lower
the age of onset of tobacco consumption. The number of men who exercised was
higher, which is considered a protective factor against alcohol and tobacco
consumption and is related to a healthy diet. Smoking has a negative
influence on diet. The students needed to change their diet. Finally, being
a nursing student is not considered a protective factor against alcohol and
tobacco consumption, nor having good eating habits and exercising.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Manuel Rodríguez-Muñoz
- Universidad de Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain.,Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain.,Universidad Pontificia de Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Juan Manuel Carmona-Torres
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain.,Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Toledo, Spain
| | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Drabwell L, Eng J, Stevenson F, King M, Osborn D, Pitman A. Perceptions of the Use of Alcohol and Drugs after Sudden Bereavement by Unnatural Causes: Analysis of Online Qualitative Data. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E677. [PMID: 31972984 PMCID: PMC7037803 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17030677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2019] [Revised: 01/17/2020] [Accepted: 01/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Bereavement is associated with an increased risk of psychiatric morbidity and all-cause mortality, particularly in younger people and after unnatural deaths. Substance misuse is implicated but little research has investigated patterns of drug or alcohol use after bereavement. We used a national online survey to collect qualitative data describing whether and how substance use changes after sudden bereavement. We conducted thematic analysis of free-text responses to a question probing use of alcohol and drugs after the sudden unnatural (non-suicide) death of a family member or a close friend. We analysed data from 243 adults in British Higher Education Institutions aged 18-40, identifying two main themes describing post-bereavement alcohol or drug use: (1) sense of control over use of drugs or alcohol (loss of control versus self-discipline), (2) harnessing the specific effects of drugs or alcohol. Across themes we identified age patterning in relation to substance misuse as a form of rebellion among those bereaved in childhood, and gender patterning in relation to men using alcohol to help express their emotions. The limitations of our sampling mean that these findings may not be generalizable from highly-educated settings to young people in the general population. Our findings describe how some young bereaved adults use drugs and alcohol to help them cope with traumatic loss, and suggest how clinicians might respond to any difficulties controlling substance use.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Drabwell
- UCL Centre for Behaviour Change, Research Department of Clinical, Educational, and Health Psychology, University College London, 1-19 Torrington Place, London WC1E 7HB, UK;
| | - Jessica Eng
- UCL Division of Psychology and Language Sciences, 26 Bedford Way, London WC1H 0AP, UK;
| | - Fiona Stevenson
- UCL Research Department of Primary Care & Population Health, Rowland Hill St, London NW3 2PF, UK;
| | - Michael King
- UCL Division of Psychiatry, Maple House, 149 Tottenham Court Road, London W1T 7NF, UK; (D.O.); (M.K.)
- Camden and Islington NHS Foundation Trust, St Pancras Hospital, London NW1 0PE, UK
| | - David Osborn
- UCL Division of Psychiatry, Maple House, 149 Tottenham Court Road, London W1T 7NF, UK; (D.O.); (M.K.)
- Camden and Islington NHS Foundation Trust, St Pancras Hospital, London NW1 0PE, UK
| | - Alexandra Pitman
- UCL Division of Psychiatry, Maple House, 149 Tottenham Court Road, London W1T 7NF, UK; (D.O.); (M.K.)
- Camden and Islington NHS Foundation Trust, St Pancras Hospital, London NW1 0PE, UK
| |
Collapse
|