Czech specialists are sounding the alarm: as psychological problems among teenagers increase, so does their dependence on drugs and alcohol. Not only are traditional substances gaining popularity, but also new ones such as HHC and kratom.
Modern children face high levels of anxiety and depression, caused by the fast pace of life, information overload, and family issues. As a result, many turn to drugs and alcohol as a way to cope with difficulties.
Teenage substance use statistics
According to the Czech National Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Addictions (NMS) in 2023:
24–26% of 16-year-old students have used illegal drugs;
23–26% have tried cannabis;
2% have taken ecstasy or hallucinogenic mushrooms;
About 1% have used cocaine or methamphetamine;
4% have experimented with kratom.
An increasing number of teenagers are ending up in medical institutions not only due to school and social service interventions but also thanks to determined parents. Some even recognize the problem themselves and seek help.
