Peer-led alcohol intervention for college students: A pilot randomized controlled trial

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Psychology
• Medical Education

Background:

• Binge drinking is prevalent among college students, posing significant health risks.
• Targeted interventions are needed to address alcohol consumption in vulnerable student populations.
• Nursing students, due to academic pressures, may be at higher risk for unhealthy alcohol use.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the preliminary efficacy of a brief, peer-led motivational intervention for reducing alcohol consumption.
• To assess the feasibility of implementing such an intervention within a Spanish nursing student population.
• To identify facilitators and barriers to intervention engagement and adherence.

Main Methods:

• A pilot randomized controlled trial involving 50 first-year Spanish nursing students.
• Intervention group received a 50-minute peer-led motivational session with individual feedback.
• Control group received no intervention; outcomes measured included alcohol use and consequences.

Main Results:

• The intervention group showed significant reductions in binge-drinking episodes and peak blood alcohol content compared to the control group.
• Participants in the intervention group also reported fewer alcohol-related consequences.
• High satisfaction was reported by both peer counselors and participants, indicating intervention feasibility.

Conclusions:

• A brief, peer-led motivational intervention shows promise for reducing alcohol consumption and related harms in Spanish college students.
• Tailored feedback and integration into the academic schedule were key facilitators.
• Further research is warranted to address student commitment barriers in a full-scale trial.