Teen Substance Use in the U.S. Hits Historic Lows Post-Pandemic

A federal survey reveals sustained declines in drug, alcohol, and vaping rates among teens, with new concerns about rising nicotine pouch use.

The Monitoring the Future survey found record-low rates of alcohol, marijuana, and nicotine use among 8th, 10th, and 12th graders in 2024.
Approximately 90% of 8th graders, 80% of 10th graders, and 67% of 12th graders reported abstaining from alcohol, marijuana, and nicotine in the past month.
Experts attribute the decline to behavioral shifts during the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted social gatherings and peer influence cycles.
Nicotine pouches, such as Zyn, saw usage among 12th graders double from 3% in 2023 to 6% in 2024, raising concerns about emerging trends.
Researchers emphasize the need for continued monitoring and education to sustain low substance use rates and address new risks like nicotine pouches.