Awareness and Prevention Strengthens Families and Communities

Student Drug Use Report Provides Valuable Insight into Youth Behaviour

According to a 2012 Atlantic Student Drug Use Survey of junior and high school students, almost half of the students surveyed in this province had not used any substances in the previous year, a significant improvement from past survey results. The findings from this survey will be used to inform policies, programs and future campaigns, and will help to identify important opportunities to create awareness and promote prevention of substance use among youth.

“The survey results provide valuable insights into the behaviour of youth, and although there are some encouraging trends, it is imperative that we work with parents, schools and students, in particular, to create awareness of the pitfalls of substance use. Additionally, as the Christmas season approaches and alcohol and drug use tends to increase, I encourage parents to speak with their children about this very important issue.”
- The Honourable Susan Sullivan, Minister of Health and Community Services.

The Atlantic Student Drug Use Survey is a self-reported and anonymous survey of junior and high school students in Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia and New Brunswick.

Survey results indicate that alcohol, tobacco and illicit drug use, such as LSD, among youth in this province is at its lowest since 1996. While cannabis usage remained the same, the age of first use was 14.2 years old, up from 13.5 years old in 2007. Students also reported decreases in driving after alcohol and cannabis use.

“Even though there is a significant decrease in the use of substances, there is always room for improvement in educating our children and young people on the dangers of substance use and associated high risk behaviours. Through health curriculum and Safe and Caring Schools initiatives we will continue to promote healthy living among our students, as well as offer resources and supports to students, parents and teachers.”
- The Honourable Clyde Jackman, Minister of Education

A copy of the survey highlights report can be found here: www.gov.nl.ca/health/addictions/studentsurvey.html 

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is committed to supporting important social programs, strong communities and the health and well-being of children, families and seniors.

QUICK FACTS

• The Student Drug Use Survey is conducted on average every four years and monitors substance use trends in youth to help guide prevention and early intervention efforts.
• Alcohol, tobacco and illicit drug use, such as LSD, among youth in Newfoundland and Labrador is at its lowest since 1996.
• 46.6 per cent of students surveyed had not used any substances, including alcohol, tobacco, cannabis or illicit drugs, in the 12 months prior to the survey.
• While ecstasy and cocaine is showing an increasing trend, the percentage of students using these substances remains relatively low compared to other substances.
• The Provincial Government provides approximately $100 million annually to deliver programs and services to individuals, including youth, with mental health or addictions issues.

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