A latent profile analysis of opioid-related knowledge, social relationships, and campus connectedness among college students.

OBJECTIVES

To identify distinct patterns of opioid-related knowledge, social relationships, and campus connectedness in a national sample of college students.

METHODS

Data were collected from 7,087 students (ages of 18-25) from 17 colleges and universities who participated in the 2021-2022 Healthy Minds Study (HMS).

RESULTS

Using latent profile analysis (LPA), four profiles were empirically derived: Profile (1) high knowledge and willing to intervene during an overdose (14%); Profile (2) disconnected from campus and resources (12%); Profile (3) neutral/hesitant (14%); and Profile (4) low knowledge but willing to intervene during an overdose (60%). There were significant differences in opioid misuse, naloxone knowledge, presence of school-based Good Samaritan policies, and mental health status between profiles.

CONCLUSIONS

While opioid-related knowledge was generally low, the majority of students felt connected to their campus community and were willing to call for help during an overdose event. By understanding what proportion of their student body falls into each profile, schools can tailor their approach. These results can inform tailored efforts at colleges and universities to implement overdose education programs, expand naloxone access, or implement Good Samaritan policies on campus.