Low Self-Esteem Linked to Excessive Drinking Among Students
Student life and excessive drinking often go hand-in-hand. New research has found that it is students with low self-esteem that are more likely to indulge in unhealthy drinking behaviours than those with higher confidence levels. The authors of the report note that this is potentially the case because those with low self-esteem “experience a greater desire to fit in with others.” Previous studies have linked negative emotions more broadly with increased alcohol consumption. This latest piece of evidence therefore builds upon past research by suggesting low self-confidence as a specific trigger of unhealthy drinking habits among its target population. As such, the authors urge future research to help students avoid experiencing feelings of low self-esteem and learn to accept themselves.