collegiate Recovery Program
Supporting College Students in Recovery at Creekside Recovery Residences
Heading off to college is an exciting time for young adults, filled with dreams of academic success and future careers. However, for some, the pressures of college life can lead to drug and alcohol abuse, potentially derailing their plans. When substance use becomes a problem, dropping out might seem like the only option. Fortunately, collegiate recovery programs can provide the support system students need to maintain their sobriety while continuing their education. Creekside Recovery Residences offers beautiful, comfortable sober living homes in prime areas near universities, providing a safe space for students to recover and succeed.
College Students & Addiction
College is a time of exploration and independence, but it also presents the temptation to experiment with drugs and alcohol. Many students don’t realize how quickly substance use can spiral out of control. According to a 2020 report, 4.9 million young adults in the U.S. aged 18 to 25 have at least one illicit drug use disorder, with many of them currently enrolled in or having dropped out of college due to addiction.
The social scene on campus can contribute to a dangerous cycle of substance use, making it vital for colleges to offer organized support systems for students in recovery. Today, there are 152 collegiate recovery programs available across various campuses to help students maintain sobriety while pursuing their academic goals.
How Do Collegiate Recovery Programs Work?
Collegiate recovery programs are designed to support students on campus, offering services that help them stay sober without having to leave school. While the specifics of each program may vary, some common elements include:
- 12-step meetings
- Counseling with addiction treatment professionals
- Substance-free social events
- Substance-free housing
- Drop-in spaces for students in need
- Dedicated staff focused on helping students stay sober and in school
These programs allow students to receive the support they need without interrupting their education. For those who do take time off, collegiate recovery programs can help ensure they stay sober when they return to school, providing both peer and professional support.
Challenges of Going to School While in Recovery
College life brings its own set of challenges, which can make sobriety difficult to maintain. Some common stressors for students in recovery include:
- Pressure to achieve good grades
- Adjusting to the new social and academic environment
- Navigating relationships and dating
- Athletic competition and performance pressures
- Feeling disconnected from peers
- Easy access to alcohol and drugs
- Homesickness
Options for Addiction Treatment
For students struggling with addiction, the first step is often detox, which helps cleanse the body of substances. After detox, individuals typically move on to either residential or outpatient treatment. Many college students prefer outpatient care, allowing them to continue their education while receiving treatment.
Sober living homes provide a solution for students who need a supportive, substance-free environment. These homes are often located near universities and offer comfortable, modern living spaces. By staying in a sober living home, students can focus on recovery while attending classes, therapy, and collegiate recovery program activities. This combination helps them stay on track academically and avoid relapse.
Find Safe Housing for College Students in Recovery Today
Are you a college student seeking sobriety, or a parent looking to help your child recover while staying in school? Creekside Recovery Residences offers safe, affordable housing for college students recovering from drug and alcohol addiction. Our homes provide access to therapy and a supportive community that helps students address their addiction and move forward with their academic and personal goals.
When combined with a collegiate recovery program, Creekside’s sober living environment creates the perfect foundation for success in both recovery and education. Visit our admissions page now to learn more about how we can help you or your loved one stay sober and achieve their college dreams.