A new EHYT report based on responses from 1,890 young people in Finland shows a complex picture of youth culture in 2026. Substance-free lifestyles are widely seen as attractive, while alcohol remains socially normalised and flavoured nicotine pouches have become increasingly prominent.

Alcohol, drugs, and suicides are the leading causes of premature years of life lost in Finland, resulting in an annual financial loss of €8.35 billion. Alcohol alone is the top cause nationwide and in many regions, while other regions see suicide, drugs, or ischemic heart diseases as the main causes. The latest data highlight significant regional disparities and stress the importance of targeted preventive efforts.