Academic Stress and Substance Use in Zambian Christian Universities: Implications for Integrated Pastoral–Psychological Care
Authors
PhD: Senior Lecturer and Researcher, Rusangu University, Monze (Zambia)
PhD student at Adventist University of Africa in Nairobi, Kenya, and a lecturer at the School of Theology and Religious Studies, Rusangu University in Monze (Zambia)
Article Information
DOI: 10.51244/IJRSI.2025.12110081
Subject Category: Psychology
Volume/Issue: 12/11 | Page No: 878-891
Publication Timeline
Submitted: 2025-11-30
Accepted: 2025-12-04
Published: 2025-12-09
Abstract
This study investigates the relationship between academic stress and substance use within Zambian Christian universities, with specific attention to implications for integrated pastoral–psychological care. Faith-based institutions emphasize spiritual formation, but little evidence shows how academic stress affects alcohol and marijuana use. This mixed-methods study examined student substance use patterns and institutional mental health responses across three Christian universities in Zambia: Rusangu University, Eden University, and DMI–St Eugene University.
Keywords
Academic Stress, Student Substance Abuse, Christian Higher Education
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References
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