Abstract
This article analyzes the relationship between psychological distress and substance abuse in students. A systematic review was conducted following the PRISMA methodology. Inclusion criteria encompassed original articles published between 1993 and 2023, in English and Spanish, sourced from Web of Science and Scopus, which addressed both variables in student samples. The literature, predominantly quantitative and cross-sectional, showed a clear tendency to support the hypothesis that greater psychological distress is associated with increased substance abuse. It is concluded that research focused on positive mental health and protective factors offers valuable solutions and guidance for understanding student behavioral phenomena and developing effective strategies.
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