Enhancing support for student well-being: substance use resources and policy approaches in community colleges

Abstract

Objective: Community colleges serve diverse students who often face substance use challenges. Policies may perpetuate stigma and deter help-seeking. This study examined the availability and comprehensiveness of substance use resources on community college websites in Health and Human Services Region IX and their association with punitive policy responses. Methods: A content analysis of 158 community college websites was conducted, followed by logistic regression to assess relationships between resource comprehensiveness, engagement opportunities, and punitive responses. Results: There was notable variability in resource availability. Overdose prevention and opioid-specific resources were limited. Comprehensive overdose prevention and treatment resources were associated with fewer punitive measures, as were engagement opportunities. Conclusion: Findings highlight the need to expand overdose prevention education, examine the punitive nature of policies, and assess the impact punitive policies have on student help-seeking behaviors. Results will inform the Region IX Pacific Southwest Addiction Technology Transfer Center's HOPES Project training and technical assistance.

Keywords: Community colleges; overdose prevention; punitive responses; substance use policies.