Why More and More Teenagers Are Abstaining - Frankfurt teens ditch drugs as health awareness and abstinence trends rise
Drug use among teenagers in Frankfurt has hit a 20-year low, according to the latest survey. The study, carried out by the Institute for Addiction Research, shows fewer young people are turning to health insurance, nicotine, or illegal substances. Researchers also noted a shift in habits, with many prioritising health and fitness over risky behaviours.
Since 2002, the Frankfurt University of Applied Sciences has tracked drug consumption in schools. This year’s findings reveal a clear decline across most substances. Alcohol use has dropped steadily, reaching its lowest point during the COVID-19 pandemic. Even nitrous oxide, once popular as laughing gas, has lost appeal for the second year running.
Smoking traditional cigarettes is now rare among teens. Those who do use nicotine often choose e-cigarettes instead. Shisha use has also fallen sharply. The only exception is snus, a banned nicotine product, which saw a minor increase. Meanwhile, cannabis use continues to decrease, despite its partial legalisation.
Health concerns and lack of interest are the main reasons young people avoid drugs. Many also spend less time on screens, cutting streaming by an hour and online activity by 1.5 hours per week. However, gaming has risen, with 12% of teens playing over 20 hours a week.
Elke Voitl, Frankfurt’s health and social affairs commissioner, credits education as the biggest factor in the decline. She also points to advertising restrictions and sales bans as helpful measures.
Over a quarter of 15- to 18-year-olds have never tried alcohol, nicotine, or any other drugs. The survey highlights a growing trend of abstinence, driven by health awareness and changing social habits. Researchers will continue monitoring these shifts in the years ahead.
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