Survey by Drug Education Charity Reveals Vaping as Top Substance Used by 15-18 Year Olds
A recent survey conducted by the DSM Foundation, a drug education charity, has revealed that vaping is the most commonly used substance by 15-18 year olds. The survey, which gathered data from just under 5,900 students during the 2023-24 academic year, also showed that over 75% of respondents named vaping as a substance causing problems among their peers.
The survey was carried out anonymously ahead of a workshop delivered by one of the DSM Foundation’s drugs education team members. It aimed to gain insight into the students’ perceptions about substance use and their motivations, as well as identify any gaps in their knowledge. The results of the survey will help the charity tailor their drug education programs to better meet the needs of the students.
When asked which substances their peers use, 95% of respondents named vaping as the top answer, followed by alcohol at 90%, cannabis at 67%, and cigarettes at 65%. The survey also revealed that 36% of students reported cannabis edibles as a substance used by their peers, while 20% cited nitrous oxide and 19% ketamine. Other substances mentioned in the survey included cocaine, magic mushrooms, and MDMA.
Compared to the previous academic year, the 2023-24 survey showed a decrease in the number of respondents citing substances, except for vaping and steroids. However, there was an increase in the number of students reporting the use of snus, cannabinoids, and image and performance enhancing drugs.
In terms of which substances students believed caused the most problems among their peers, vaping was again the top answer, with 75% of respondents naming it. This was followed by alcohol at just over 50%. The survey also revealed that the reasons for substance use among young people included curiosity, socializing, and for fun/relaxation. However, over 58% of students also stated that pressure was a major factor, with 38% citing coping with problems and 27% citing addiction.
The survey also asked students where they came across drugs, with parties/gatherings, outdoor areas, and someone’s house being the most commonly reported locations. These figures were consistent with the data gathered in the previous academic year.
Fiona Spargo-Mabbs, the Director, Founder, and mother of Daniel Spargo-Mabbs, for whom the charity is named after, commented on the survey results. She acknowledged the value of the data in shaping the drug education programs, but also expressed concern over the increasing use of synthetic cannabinoids and the harm caused by vaping “Spice.” She stressed the importance of effective drug education to address these issues and support young people in making safer choices.
The DSM Foundation was established in 2014 following the death of 16-year-old Daniel Spargo-Mabbs from an accidental overdose. The charity aims to provide young people with relevant, age-appropriate, and evidence-based information about drugs to help them make informed decisions. They work with schools, colleges, and community organizations, and also provide workshops for parents and caregivers. For more information, visit https://www.dsmfoundation.org.uk/.
Media enquiries about this press release or the work of the DSM Foundation should be sent to media@dsmfoundation.org.uk.
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