Background Information:

Young people are exposed to a wide range of messages about drugs and may have public and private views on the issues involved. Knowledge, understanding and exposure to substances will also vary according to culture, religion, community and socio-economic group.

Drug trends
A recent national survey of school children (2003) in one part of the UK resulted in the following trends being identified. Drugs here refers to illicit drugs, not tobacco and alcohol.

• 34% of 13 year olds said they’d been offered a drug; 13% said they’d used a drug.
• 65% of 15 year olds said they’d been offered a drug; 37% said they’d used a drug.
• Cannabis was the most commonly used drug. 31% of 15 year olds said they’d used it in the last year.
• Use of drugs like heroin and cocaine was very rare in this age group, in fact more 13 and 15 year olds said they’d been offered or used solvents.
• Both girls and boys who smoked and drank alcohol regularly were more likely to take drugs, but 13 and 15 year olds were less likely to take drugs than they were to drink alcohol and get drunk.
• Over half of 13 year olds in the survey said they’d been drunk at least once.

The general trends above are reflected in other areas of the UK but for information specific to the area where you work, visit the Links section or contact your NHS Public Health, Health Promotion or Health Improvement Department.

Why do young people get involved in drugs?
Although many school pupils are likely to be offered drugs, the majority still refuse them. It is natural for young people to want to experiment, to take risks and make their own choices. Some are tempted to experiment out of curiosity or because of family problems. For some it’s just a phase and part of growing up. Experience does vary a lot depending on where they live; in some urban areas drug use is common, but drugs are also available in rural areas.

What happens to young people who take drugs?
Most young people give up taking drugs of their own accord without experiencing major problems. However, possession of controlled drugs is against the law and could lead to a criminal record. In addition some people are more vulnerable to addiction and do go on to develop serious problems that require help. Some parents worry cannabis will lead on to other drugs. This is a controversial area but there is no conclusive evidence. However, dealers who sell cannabis may also offer or try to persuade customers to experiment with other drugs. It is important to remember that any drug use is potentially dangerous and carries serious risks to mental and physical health.