Prevalence and Patterns of Psychoactive Substance Use Among Undergraduates at a Nigerian Tertiary Institution

Psychoactive substance use among undergraduates is a growing public health issue of concern, with significant implications on academic performance, health and overall well-being. Psychoactive substance use can lead to long-term addiction, impaired cognitive function, and increased risk of mental disorders, making it a critical issue for university students. This study assessed prevalence and factors associated with psychoactive substance use among undergraduates at a selected Nigerian Tertiary Institution. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted using a structured questionnaire to collect data from 320 randomly selected undergraduate students through a multistage sampling technique. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze the data, and a statistically significant p-value was set at < 0.05. 176 (55%) of the respondents were male, with mean age of 22.82 ± 3.372 years. 35.5% of respondents used psychoactive substances to relieve stress, while 6.5% used psychoactive substances due to parental influence. Alcohol (73.6%) was the commonest substance used; Drinking (57.1%) was the commonest consumption route. Age (p < 0.015), Gender (p < 0.046), Year of study (p < 0.009), and Average monthly income (p < 0.001) were significantly associated with increased psychoactive substance use. The use of psychoactive substances among undergraduates is alarmingly prevalent and must be effectively addressed. This research underscores the need for targeted interventions aimed at reducing substance use, with a focus on mental health support, peer education, drug abuse prevention campaigns, and stricter enforcement of campus policies on substance abuse. Additionally, preventive strategies should address the underlying psychosocial factors driving substance use, including academic stress, social influences, and economic challenges.