The MAPme Project: Implementing a College-Based Study of Substance Use and Mental Wellness

Background: Transitional age youth aged 18-25 years are more likely to engage in risky behaviors, displaying significantly higher alcohol and illicit drug use levels than adolescents and older adults. College students are particularly vulnerable at this critical life juncture as transitioning to adulthood may impact emotional health and well-being, contributing to anxiety, depression, and feelings of hopelessness, all of which are linked to increased risk of substance use and disorders. In 2018, we launched the MAPme Project to pilot a multi-site, longitudinal, college-based study intending to increase the foundational understanding of substance use and behavior development in diverse groups of young adults. Objective: To characterize the design and status of the MAPme Project, a prospective longitudinal study centered on substance use and emotional wellness during and beyond college. Participants: The pilot cohort comprised 301 college freshmen who completed online assessments at baseline (Wave 1). Methods: We provide descriptive information on the pilot cohort, along with preliminary associations of pre- and early collegiate substance use outcomes, psychopathology, sleep patterns, and personality traits. Results: Approximately 64% of participants reported use of a substance in the 90 days leading up to college. Alcohol and cannabis were the most prevalent substances used with males consuming more alcohol than females (t-value=-2.66, p=0.01). Females reported greater levels of daily stressors and mood symptoms. Other health and personality characteristics and observed associations between psychosocial risk and protective factors are described. Prior studies demonstrate the ability to test research hypotheses in the social, health, and clinical areas of psychology with robust statistical power. Conclusions: Substance use and emotional well-being vary considerably upon entry into college/university. The MAPme Project encourages the engagement of students to address challenges associated with lack of awareness, inclusivity, and acceptance of scientific research. Overcoming barriers of inclusivity and empowering the community is key to the successful adoption and implementation of campus health and community-oriented research programs and systematically enhancing research training. Students and faculty interested in bringing MAPme to their campus community should or outreach page at https://scholarblogs.emory.edu/mapme/participant-requirements/ and sign-up page at https://forms.gle/puC7T2zS91td3rA98.