Publication Details
Abstract
This paper examined counselling service strategies that can be deployed to reduce substance abuse among students in Nigerian tertiary institutions. The paper discussed the prevalence of substance abuse in higher institutions and its effects on students’ academic achievement, emotional stability, social adjustment, and health conditions. The study adopted a review research model through the use of secondary sources of data obtained from textbooks, journal articles, government publications, conference papers, and online academic materials related to substance abuse and counselling services. The paper identified orientation and awareness programmes, individual counselling, group counselling, peer counselling, family counselling, rehabilitation services, life skills training, and establishment of functional counselling centres as effective counselling strategies for curtailing substance abuse in tertiary institutions. The paper concluded that counselling services remain essential tools for behavioural modification, emotional support, rehabilitation, and prevention of drug abuse among students. The study recommended adequate funding of counselling units, employment of professional counsellors, regular anti-drug campaigns, collaboration with anti-drug agencies, and strengthening of rehabilitation programmes in tertiary institutions across Nigeria.