The 2024 ESPAD report, marking 30 years of monitoring adolescent substance use in Europe, shows a continued decline in drinking and smoking among teenagers but highlights new concerns such as rising e-cigarette use, misuse of pharmaceuticals, and digital risk behaviours. The findings call for stronger prevention and mental health strategies across Europe.

A new study from CAN shows that the most common reason young people use alcohol, cannabis, and psychedelics is to enhance positive feelings. While drinking alcohol is often linked to becoming more social, cannabis and psychedelics are more associated with coping with anxiety, low mood, or seeking mind-expanding effects. Understanding these motives can help guide effective preventive measures.

The Finnish Mental Health Policy Advisory Board urges the government to assess the mental health impacts of proposed changes to alcohol and gambling laws. With regulation being eased and harm risks increasing, the board stresses the need for prevention, support services, and earmarked funding to address rising challenges, especially among youth.

Addiction runs in families—47% of TUBA’s young clients also have grandparents with alcohol problems. Prevention is key.