Teenagers in the US are staying away from drugs, alcohol, and tobacco more than ever before, according to a new survey from the University of Michigan. The study, which gathered responses from 24,000 students in grades 8, 10, and 12, highlights a remarkable teen substance use decline. Among 12th graders, 66% reported no use of alcohol, marijuana, cigarettes, or e-cigarettes in the past 30 days – the highest abstinence rate since the survey started tracking this behaviour in 2017. Younger students showed even greater restraint, with 80% of 10th graders and 90% of 8th graders abstaining, marking significant milestones in youth drug trends.

This downward trend, which initially arose during the early days of the Covid-19 pandemic, has continued to surprise experts even as lockdown restrictions were lifted. Richard Miech, a lead researcher for the study, expressed astonishment, saying, “We really expected that once the social distancing policies were lifted, things would kind of return to their pre-pandemic levels, but that’s not what happened. Drug use not only stayed low, but it’s dropped even further.”

A major contributor to this trend appears to be the elimination of peer pressure during the pandemic. Social distancing protocols meant teenagers were mostly confined to their immediate families, reducing opportunities for social gatherings where drug and alcohol use typically occur. “Drug use, particularly among adolescents, is typically a social event,” Miech explained, noting how restricted interactions led to less experimentation with harmful substances.

Beyond the pandemic’s impact, the survey also revealed interesting shifts in specific behaviours. Marijuana use among US teenagers has declined, a notable departure from the upward trend seen among adults in America. This suggests that youth have resisted societal shifts normalising cannabis usage, possibly due to reinforced educational campaigns about its risks.

However, not all findings are entirely positive. The rise of nicotine pouches among teens has raised alarm bells. Usage rates doubled from 3% in 2023 to 6% in the past year among 12th graders. These discreet, flavoured nicotine products – often offered in mint or menthol – appear to be gaining popularity, particularly because of their ability to be used surreptitiously. The trend mirrors concerns already seen in Europe, where these products are more prevalent. Experts are closely monitoring the situation to assess whether nicotine pouches represent the next significant public health challenge.

Another potential risk identified in the survey is the persistent glamorisation of smoking in pop culture. From films to TV shows, the recurring portrayal of cigarette use could inadvertently influence youth perspectives on smoking. Richard Miech voiced his concern, stating, “I see more and more smoking in the media and in the shows I watch with my teenage daughter.” However, he remains optimistic, noting that these portrayals have not yet translated into increased cigarette use among teens.

The continuing decline of teen substance use marks a substantial public health victory. Record levels of alcohol and tobacco abstinence among US teenagers offer hope for the future, but experts stress the importance of vigilance. Emerging trends such as nicotine pouch use and the indirect influence of media on smoking behaviour remind us that guarding progress requires sustained efforts. By focusing on education, prevention, and support from parents, we can help keep these positive changes in teen behaviour going strong for future generations.

Source: The Guardian