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Generation COVID: Young adult substance use
Andrea M Hussong1, Amanda K Haik1, Hayden M Loeb1
1Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Campus Box #3270, 235 E. Cameron Avenue, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-3270, USA.
Current Opinion in Psychology
|July 13, 2023
Summary
Young adult substance use initially declined during the COVID-19 pandemic but showed some recovery. Individual risk factors influenced these patterns, highlighting the need for targeted interventions.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Substance Use Research
Background:
- The COVID-19 pandemic created opposing pressures on young adult substance use: restricted access versus increased distress.
- The pandemic's impact on substance use patterns remained unclear, with theories suggesting both decline and increase.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze global longitudinal data on young adult substance use during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- To identify factors influencing changes in substance use patterns.
- To assess the need for continued surveillance and programming.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of peer-reviewed global longitudinal studies on substance use.
- Examination of trends in commonly used substances from 2020 to 2021.
- Identification of individual difference factors associated with substance use changes.
Main Results:
- Overall declines in substance use were observed in 2020, with partial rebounds in 2021.
- Substance use declines were linked to limited access, while increases correlated with pre-existing risk factors.
- Evidence for coping-related substance use increases was limited.
Conclusions:
- Young adult substance use patterns during the pandemic were complex and varied.
- Pre-existing vulnerabilities and access restrictions significantly influenced substance use trends.
- Enhanced surveillance and targeted programming are crucial for vulnerable populations given the link between mental health and substance use.
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