Exploring Evidence-Based Recovery and Harm Reduction Programming for Hazardous Substance Use Among College Students: Paving the Way to Enhanced Accessibility.

Abstract

Substance misuse among college students continues to rise, with polysubstance use becoming increasingly common. Alcohol remains the most prevalent substance, with heavy episodic and high-quantity drinking linked to serious consequences, including injuries, assaults, and deaths. Concurrent use of alcohol and cannabis, as well as other illicit drugs, further compounds risks to health, safety, and academic functioning. Colleges have responded with a range of recovery and harm reduction initiatives, such as Campus Recovery Communities, Collegiate Recovery Programs, and bystander-oriented efforts like the Red Watch Band Program. While these programs provide critical support, they remain limited by accessibility, scope, and their often retroactive nature. Student health services and community partnerships extend intervention capacity, but gaps persist in reaching the broader student population. To address these challenges, innovative strategies are needed that complement traditional models. Digital health tools, particularly mobile applications, present a scalable, cost-effective approach with potential to extend harm reduction, prevention, and recovery support in ways that align with student needs and behaviors. We are calling for expanded research, investment, and program development to integrate evidence-based digital solutions with campus initiatives, positioning higher education institutions to better respond to the evolving landscape of substance use.