Teen Drug Use Surges After Pandemic Lull: Korean Study Reveals Alarming Trend – archyde.com
Seoul, South Korea – A newly released study from the Korean Society of Poisoning New Medicine is raising urgent concerns about a significant increase in drug use among adolescents. After a period of decline during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, rates are now exceeding pre-pandemic levels, prompting calls for increased awareness and preventative measures. This is breaking news with serious implications for youth health and well-being, and archyde.com is bringing you the latest details.
Pandemic’s Unexpected Impact: A Temporary Reprieve
Researchers from Hanyang University, led by Ha Min-kyung, Kim Yun-jin, and Roh Sung-won, analyzed data from the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Government’s annual ‘Youth Health Behavior Survey.’ Their findings, published in the latest issue of ‘Addiction Psychiatry,’ show a decrease in reported drug use from 1.08% (2018-2019) to 0.73% during the peak pandemic years (2020-2021). This initial drop was attributed to increased social distancing measures, restrictions on movement, and a weakening of peer influence – factors that limited both access to drugs and opportunities for use.
“The pandemic created a unique set of circumstances that temporarily suppressed drug use among teens,” explains Dr. Kim Yun-jin, a lead researcher on the study. “Strong social distancing, while necessary for public health, inadvertently created barriers to drug access and reduced the social pressures that often contribute to experimentation.”
The Rebound: Why Drug Use is Climbing Again
However, the reprieve was short-lived. The study reveals a concerning rebound in drug use from 2022 to 2023, surpassing pre-pandemic rates. Researchers believe this increase is linked to a complex interplay of factors, including the easing of pandemic restrictions, the release of pent-up stress, and the challenges of readjusting to in-person schooling. The drugs included in the study encompassed a wide range, from prescription medications like neuro stabilizers and sleeping pills to illicit substances such as cannabis and cocaine.
A Gender Shift and the Role of Smartphones
Perhaps one of the most striking findings is a shift in gender dynamics. Before the pandemic, male adolescents were more likely to report drug use than their female counterparts. However, post-pandemic, the risk of drug use among female adolescents has significantly increased, now exceeding that of males. This trend warrants further investigation to understand the specific factors driving this change.
Adding another layer of complexity, the study identified ‘excessive smartphone use’ as a significant risk factor for drug use after the pandemic. Researchers suggest that increased screen time may provide greater access to information about drugs and facilitate connections with potential suppliers. This highlights the growing need for digital literacy and responsible technology use among young people.
Underlying Vulnerabilities: Consistent Risk Factors
While the pandemic introduced new dynamics, certain vulnerabilities consistently increased the risk of drug use across all time periods. These include residing in childcare facilities, experiencing physical violence, and struggling with mental health issues such as depression and suicidal ideation. These findings underscore the importance of addressing underlying social and emotional needs to prevent substance abuse.
Understanding these consistent risk factors is crucial for developing targeted interventions. Early identification and support for vulnerable youth, coupled with accessible mental health services, are essential components of a comprehensive prevention strategy. This isn’t just a Korean issue; similar trends are being observed globally, making this research relevant for public health officials worldwide.
The data from this Korean study serves as a critical wake-up call. As societies continue to navigate the long-term effects of the pandemic, it’s vital to prioritize the mental and emotional well-being of adolescents and address the emerging challenges that contribute to substance abuse. Stay informed with archyde.com for ongoing coverage of this important issue and other breaking news stories impacting our world.
