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New Stats: Youth Have Highest Rates of Substance Abuse & Dependence.


According to data from 2022, over 5 million Canadians (18%) aged 15 and older met the diagnostic criteria for a mood, anxiety, or substance use disorder in the previous 12 months.


Some statistics that highlight this issue include:


  • In Canada, approximately 20% of youth aged 15-19 reported using cannabis in the past three months, and 12% reported using other illicit drugs. (Source: CCSA)


  • According to the WHO, the highest prevalence of substance use disorders is found among people aged 15-24, with approximately 1 in 5 individuals in this age group experiencing a substance use disorder. (Source: WHO)


It's important to note that substance use among youth can have serious consequences for their health, well-being, and future. If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use, it's important to seek help from a trusted adult, mental health professional, or substance use treatment center.


This statistic sheds light on the significant impact of mental health issues within the Canadian population, highlighting the pressing need for effective interventions and support systems.


Moreover, the prevalence of mood and anxiety disorders in Canada has shown a concerning increase from 2012 to 2022, indicating a growing mental health crisis that requires attention and resources to address effectively.


This upward trend in mental health conditions underscores the importance of prioritizing mental well-being and implementing strategies to promote mental health awareness and access to mental health services.


Research and studies have also revealed that substance use among youth is a prevalent issue in Canada. Youth are particularly vulnerable to substance abuse and dependence, with findings from various sources pointing towards alarmingly high rates of substance misuse among this demographic. Understanding the factors contributing to substance use among youth and developing targeted prevention and intervention programs are crucial steps in mitigating the adverse effects of substance abuse on young individuals and society as a whole.


References:


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For more information and detailed statistics on mental health and substance use trends in Canada, you can refer to the official source: https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/pub/11-627-m/11-627-m2023053-eng.htm


According to various studies and reports from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction (CCSA), youth and young adults have been found to have higher rates of substance use and substance use disorders compared to other age groups.

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