The majority of the information contained in this assessment has been sourced from the Young People's Drug & Alcohol Services Local Needs Assessment
Newcastle upon Tyne December 2007.
- For many young people drug and alcohol use is a part of growing up, but for a small proportion of young people experimental and recreational use becomes problematic and we may see these young people in treatment services.
- Recent trends show an increase in problematic alcohol use with a corresponding drop in the use of illicit substances.
- Evidence suggests that there has been a drop in opiate use in under 18s. Whether this is being replaced with other drugs such as alcohol or benzodiazepines is a matter of speculation, even though there is some anecdotal evidence. Tighter enforcement and controls may be playing a part in this as well as cultural influences.
- The use of Cannabis remains fairly stable and is popular as a primary drug of choice and as an additional substance for many young people who access treatment services.