A Systematic Review on the Intersections of Drug Addiction, Mental Health, and Consumer Patterns in Higher Education Contexts

Abstract Substance use among university students has become an escalating issue with far-reaching consequences for their mental health and financial stability. This systematic review synthesises empirical studies published between 2015 and 2024 that examine the intersection of psychoactive substance use, psychological well-being, and spending patterns among students in higher education. A systematic search across databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, PsycINFO, and Google Scholar, yielded 20 eligible studies. Boolean search terms combining “substance use,” “mental health,” and “consumer behaviour” guided the selection process. Findings reveal that alcohol remains the most widely used substance, followed by cannabis, tobacco, and prescription drugs such as tramadol, codeine, and benzodiazepines. A strong association emerged between substance use and mental health problems like anxiety, depression, emotional instability, and academic burnout. Economically, students often reallocated stipends or family allowances to sustain drug use, sometimes sacrificing basic needs such as food or transportation. Regional patterns indicated Nigeria, Ethiopia, and the USA contributed the highest number of studies. The review points out that there are holistic interventions that integrate mental health support, financial literacy, and harm-reduction strategies. Further interdisciplinary and longitudinal research is essential to deepen understanding and improve prevention in academic settings.