Some reflections on the present situation of drug abuse among young people

Interest in drug abuse has recently increased in Denmark and other Scandinavian countries, in particular with regard to certain aspects of the problem. This paper reviews the questions of voluntary versus compulsory treatment, the high death rate among young drug-dependent persons and the problems of the young drug-dependent woman and her child. Although it is difficult to predict future developments in drug abuse, the paper concludes that ways and means must be found to provide children and young people with a more meaningful life. This will mean tackling the social, economic and psychological situation of those at risk of becoming drug-dependent.