Alcohol use and binge drinking among US college students by military veteran status: Findings from the Healthy Minds study, 2021-2022.

Objective

We examined current alcohol use and binge drinking among college students, by Veteran status.

Participants

Students that completed the 2021-2022 Healthy Minds Study, with complete demographic, alcohol use, and mental health data (n = 78,446).

Methods

Weighted logistic regression models examined the relationship between Veteran status and past two-week alcohol use; and among those currently using alcohol, whether Veteran status was associated with any binge drinking. Models controlled for age, gender, race and ethnicity, and mental health conditions. We replicated models within the Veteran sample.

Results

Veteran status was not significantly associated with increased use of alcohol or binge drinking. Both within the full population and the Veteran sample who currently use alcohol, students aged 18-20 had the highest odds of engaging in past two-week binge drinking.

Conclusions

College campuses should continue prevention and intervention planning for the high-risk group of underage students to reduce alcohol-related morbidity and consequences. Disclaimer: The opinions and assertions expressed herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Uniformed Services University or the Department of Defense.