A stressed student surrounded by books and pills, symbolizing the pressures leading to psychotropic drug use.

The Silent Epidemic: Why More Students Are Turning to Psychotropic Drugs

Kai Mendoza in Health & Wellness December 2025 • 4 min read.

"Uncover the reasons behind the increasing use of psychotropic medications among university students and what can be done to address this growing concern."

In recent years, the use of psychotropic drugs has risen sharply among young adults and adolescents. While some individuals may genuinely require these medications for mental health conditions, a significant portion of this increase is linked to self-medication—a practice driven by the intense pressures and demands of modern academic life.

According to the World Health Organization, psychoactive substances carry a risk of dependence. Among these substances, benzodiazepines have seen a particularly notable surge in usage. University students, especially those in health science programs like medicine, are increasingly turning to these drugs. Their familiarity with the supposed benefits of these medications, coupled with easy access, makes them particularly vulnerable.

The demanding academic schedules, the stress of living away from home, and a lack of academic motivation can all contribute to this problem. However, there remains a significant gap in our understanding of this issue, highlighting the urgent need for greater awareness and intervention.

Why Are Students Reaching for Benzodiazepines?

A stressed student surrounded by books and pills, symbolizing the pressures leading to psychotropic drug use.

Many students report using benzodiazepines to cope with academic pressures. Some common refrains include the belief that these drugs enhance academic performance, reduce exam-related stress, and improve concentration. However, it’s crucial to recognize that these perceived benefits come with significant risks. Even when taken under medical supervision and at prescribed doses, benzodiazepines can lead to abuse and dependence.

A study conducted at a National University in Colombia revealed concerning trends among health science students (including those in medicine and nursing). The research highlighted a high rate of psychotropic drug use, with a significant percentage of students obtaining these medications without a prescription. Specifically, the study found that:

49% of students purchased the drugs directly.
35% obtained them through a healthcare provider.
11% received them from a family member.
5% acquired them from a friend.
Notably, none reported obtaining drugs from medical samples.

These findings underscore the ease with which students can access these medications, often bypassing proper medical channels and controls.

Addressing the Issue and Moving Forward

This article aims to shed light on the growing problem of benzodiazepine use among university students in health sciences. By raising awareness among authorities and the public, it is possible to promote proactive measures. Local data is currently limited, emphasizing the need for comprehensive research and the development of specific protocols in this area. Armed with these insights, strategies can be developed to improve the dispensing, control, and oversight of these medications, thereby reducing the risks of abuse, dependence, and other related dangers.

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Everything You Need To Know

What are the main reasons university students, especially those in health science programs, are turning to psychotropic drugs like benzodiazepines?

Several factors contribute to the increasing use of psychotropic drugs among university students, particularly those in health science programs. Firstly, the demanding academic schedules and the inherent stress of university life, compounded by the pressures of living away from home, can lead students to seek ways to cope. Secondly, the perception that these drugs can enhance academic performance, reduce exam-related stress, and improve concentration drives their usage. The article specifically points to the concerning trend of self-medication, where students are taking drugs to manage their mental health without proper medical supervision. Finally, the ease of access to these medications, as shown by the study at the National University in Colombia, allows students to bypass proper medical channels and controls.

What are the primary risks associated with the use of benzodiazepines, even when taken at prescribed doses?

Even when taken under medical supervision and at prescribed doses, benzodiazepines carry significant risks. According to the World Health Organization, psychoactive substances, including benzodiazepines, pose a risk of dependence. Moreover, as highlighted in the article, the misuse of benzodiazepines, even in prescribed forms, can lead to abuse and dependence. Students often perceive these drugs as a quick fix for academic pressures, but the long-term effects can be detrimental to their health and well-being. This dependence can lead to a cycle where individuals feel they need the drug to function, which escalates the risk of further health complications.

How do university students typically obtain benzodiazepines, as revealed by the study in Colombia?

The study conducted at a National University in Colombia provides valuable insights into how students access psychotropic drugs. The findings show that 49% of students purchased the drugs directly, 35% obtained them through a healthcare provider, 11% received them from a family member, and 5% acquired them from a friend. This data highlights several concerning aspects, including the ease with which students can bypass proper medical channels and controls when obtaining these drugs. The absence of medical samples as a source underscores the diverse pathways students utilize to access medications.

What are the long-term implications if this trend continues?

If the trend of increased psychotropic drug use, particularly benzodiazepines, continues among university students, there are several severe long-term implications. Increased dependence and addiction rates can lead to significant health problems, affecting both physical and mental well-being. There is a potential for a rise in overdoses and other drug-related emergencies. The academic performance of students can also suffer, as dependence on these drugs can hinder their ability to study and perform well in exams. Additionally, there could be a strain on healthcare systems, requiring increased resources for treatment and support. Furthermore, the normalization of drug use could impact the societal perception and contribute to further risky behaviors.

What steps can be taken to address the increasing use of psychotropic drugs among university students, and how can authorities and the public help?

Addressing the rising use of psychotropic drugs, particularly benzodiazepines, among university students requires a multi-faceted approach. Raising awareness among authorities and the public is a critical first step. This can be achieved through educational campaigns that highlight the risks associated with these drugs and the importance of seeking professional mental health support. There is a need for comprehensive research to understand the local prevalence and patterns of drug use, allowing the development of specific protocols tailored to the needs of the student population. Improved dispensing, control, and oversight of these medications can reduce the risk of misuse and dependence. Universities can also enhance their mental health services to provide timely support and intervention for students struggling with academic pressures, stress, and other mental health challenges. Collaborative efforts between universities, healthcare providers, and the government are essential to create a safe and supportive environment for students.