Alcohol is the big problem at university, say students

MOST students have not used drugs during their time at university and more think excessive alcohol consumption is a bigger issue, a new study suggests.

The survey also found that a high proportion — 88% — believe drug use can cause longterm mental health problems, with around two thirds stating that it contributes to criminality and healthcare costs.

The study, by the Higher Education Policy Institute (Hepi) and the University of Buckingham, found that 71% of students have not taken illicit drugs.

As many as 44% think drinking alcohol excessively is a “very serious” threat compared to 33% who consider illegal drugs more dangerous.

Hepi director Nick Hillman said: “This survey provides an important corrective to some of the wilder ideas about today’s students. A majority clearly recognise the dangers of taking illegal substances.”

The survey of 1,000 people was conducted via YouthSight’s student panel, with results weighted to reflect all the body of full-time undergraduate students.