MyUse App for UCCSU

MyUSE is a web-based prevention, education, and behaviour-change tool developed for higher education students in Ireland. The platform supports students to reflect on their substance use experiences, make informed and mindful decisions, and reduce potential harms in a practical, realistic, and non-judgemental way.

Substance use exists on a spectrum, and MyUSE is designed to recognise this. Whether a student has never used drugs, has used in the past, or currently uses substances, MyUSE provides relevant, accessible, and evidence-based information tailored to different levels of experience. Rather than assuming one-size-fits-all messaging, the platform meets students where they are and responds to their individual needs.

MyUSE encourages reflection and self-awareness while also offering concrete harm-reduction strategies, wellbeing supports, and signposting to appropriate services. By combining prevention, education, and behaviour-change approaches, MyUSE aims to empower students to make safer choices and support their overall wellbeing during their time in higher education

The vision of MyUSE to become Ireland’s go-to digital harm-reduction and support tool for students. They aim to set the national standard for evidence-based, student-centred, and non-judgemental digital support relating to substance use and wellbeing in higher education.

MyUSE’s mission is to provide confidential, always-on digital support that enables students to safely explore their substance use experiences and related behaviours. Through tailored content and practical, evidence-based guidance, MyUSE supports students to reduce harm, build skills, and make informed decisions without fear of judgement or stigma.

By being accessible at any time and place, MyUSE complements existing campus supports and provides an additional layer of early intervention and education for students who may not otherwise seek help.

MyUSE is guided by a strong set of values that underpin every aspect of the platform:

• Privacy and Security
  Student confidentiality is central to MyUSE. The platform is designed to protect user privacy and ensure that students can engage honestly and safely.
• Equality of Access and Support
  MyUSE is inclusive and accessible, aiming to support students from all backgrounds, institutions, and levels of experience.
• Evidence-Based and Student-Centred
  All content and guidance are informed by research, best practice, and the lived experiences of students, ensuring relevance and effectiveness.
• Non-Judgemental and Supportive
  MyUSE avoids moralising or punitive messaging. Instead, it focuses on respect, understanding, and practical support.

Funding and Partnerships

MyUSE is funded through the ESHIELD project, a national, multi-component initiative focused on reducing drug-related harms in higher education institutions across Ireland. ESHIELD combines digital innovation, behavioural science, and institutional policy reform to deliver a coordinated and evidence-informed response to substance use in student populations.

The development of MyUSE has also been shaped by the support and expertise of the HSE Social Inclusion Unit and the Cork Local Drugs and Alcohol Task Force. Their input and guidance have been instrumental in ensuring that the platform aligns with national public health priorities and reflects best practice in harm reduction and student support.

Together, these partnerships help ensure that MyUSE is credible, effective, and responsive to the real needs of students in Irish higher education.

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