Effective Substance Use Harm Reduction Interventions on College Campuses: A Scoping Review

Abstract

Objective: Harm reduction is an evidence-based approach to mitigate the risks associated with certain behaviors. A feasible solution for meeting college students where they are, harm reduction equips students with knowledge and resources in the event they choose to engage in alcohol or illicit drug use. This review summarizes what is known from the existing literature about the effectiveness of harm reduction interventions on college campuses related to substance use.Methods: A scoping review was conducted on effective harm reduction interventions on college campuses. The literature search utilized three databases: PubMed, Embase, and Grey Literature Report. Effectiveness was assessed using the Center for Disease Control’s Continuum of Evidence of Effectiveness (well-supported, supported, promising). Results: 52 primary articles were included in this review after being screened. Interventions were grouped and analyzed by type. As much of the available literature discussed alcohol and marijuana use, there is a scarcity of interventions related to other substances. Conclusions: This review summarizes the evidence of effective harm reduction interventions for college students. Current research establishes a variety of program initiatives for colleges to successfully address and treat alcohol and illicit drug use on campus. There is a need for evaluating the long-term effects of these interventions and substances other than alcohol and marijuana.