Demographic and other correlates of non-prescription drug use among college students during the COVID-19 pandemic

Background and objectives: Substance use among college students in the U.S. remains a pressing concern and may have intensified during the COVID-19 pandemic due to increased stress, uncertainty, and academic disruptions. This study investigates the relationship between non-prescription drug use and various demographic, mental health, and behavioral factors among college students during the pandemic's early stages. Methods: Data were collected through online and in-person surveys in the summer semester of 2021. Behavioral health was assessed using validated instruments: the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) for depression and the Drug Abuse Screening Test-20 (DAST-20) for substance use. Demographic and behavioral variables were gathered via structured surveys through convenience sampling. Bivariate analyses were followed by logistic regression to identify significant predictors of drug use. Results: > 0.05). Conclusion: This study identifies key demographic and behavioral health correlates of non-prescription drug use during a time of heightened stress. The findings underscore the need for targeted behavioral health interventions in college settings, particularly during public health crises. Understanding these risk factors can inform campus health strategies and support services aimed at reducing substance use and promoting student wellbeing.