Unusual alcohol consumption trends spreading rapidly
The consumption of substances like nicotine and alcohol has emerged as a significant risk factor for premature death, especially among young people. This alarming trend has been further exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which has led to increased boredom and stress among the youth, resulting in higher substance use.
Substance Use Trends (2009–2019)
In the U.S., alcohol use remained the most prevalent substance, with about 46.6% of Americans aged 12 or older reporting drinking alcohol in the past month in 2024 [4]. Although tobacco use showed a decline over the decade due to increased awareness and policy measures, the rise of nicotine dependency continued, particularly with the growing popularity of vaping. In 2024, about 16.7% of Americans aged 12+ were past-month tobacco product users, including cigarettes and other tobacco products [4].
Alcohol Consumption
Historical trends through 2019 show relatively stable or slightly declining alcohol consumption rates depending on age and demographic groups [4]. However, the prevalence of alcohol use remains a concern, with dependence issues linked closely to social and demographic factors [5].
Tobacco Use and Vaping
Despite the decline in traditional cigarette smoking, the rise of nicotine vaping became prominent, with 9.6% reporting vaping nicotine in the past month [4]. This shift towards vaping indicates that while tobacco smoking rates fell due to public health campaigns, nicotine dependency continued to persist.
Impact of COVID-19 on Substance Use Among Youth
The COVID-19 pandemic (2020 onward) has altered substance use patterns, especially among youth. School closures, social isolation, and mental health stressors have influenced drug and alcohol use behaviors. Although data from the pandemic years are still being analyzed in detail, surveys indicate changes in youth substance use patterns, including decreased access but possibly increased use among certain groups due to stress and anxiety.
For instance, marijuana use among high school students reportedly declined slightly before the pandemic, but pandemic-related disruptions have affected these trends variably. Similarly, the pandemic has impacted nicotine vaping trends, with some youth users decreasing usage due to reduced social opportunities, while others have increased use due to stress coping mechanisms.
Addressing the Root Causes
It's crucial to address the root causes of high alcohol and tobacco consumption among young people, such as psychological illnesses like depression due to stress and loneliness. Michael Falkenstein, an addiction expert, advocates for early prevention of substance abuse, suggesting that efforts should be made to reach young people before they start consuming drugs like alcohol.
According to a survey, among young people aged 16 to 29, one in three occasional smokers report smoking more frequently since COVID-19. Furthermore, one in nine, and one in six among 16 to 29-year-olds, use other substances like performance enhancers in tablet or energy drink form [1].
Increased consumption during difficult times can lead to habit formation and a higher risk of addiction. Therefore, it's essential to provide support and resources for young people to cope with stress and mental health issues without turning to substances.
[1] Data from a survey conducted by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) [2] Data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) [3] Data from the Monitoring the Future Study (MTF) [4] Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) [5] Data from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
- The concern over substance use among young people extends beyond alcohol and tobacco, as mental health stressors from the COVID-19 pandemic have led to increased consumption of substances like marijuana and nicotine vaping.
- Addressing the mental health issues among young people, such as depression due to stress and loneliness, is integral to preventing increased alcohol and tobacco use, as well as other substance abuse such as performance enhancers.
- In the realm of health-and-wellness, it is crucial to promote fitness-and-exercise, nutrition, and overall mental health as alternatives to substance use for coping with stress and difficult times.
