A new study has raised concerns over the growing vulnerability of adolescents in India to substance use, revealing that more than one in five teenagers may be at moderate to high risk of developing substance-related problems. The findings underscore the need for early intervention, stronger awareness programmes, and improved mental health support for young people across the country.

Over 6000 teenagers from 108 government and private schools across India were part of the study.  Researchers found that approximately 22 percent of participants exhibited behavioural patterns associated with moderate or high risk of substance use. The study, published in The Lancet Regional Health-Southeast Asia, assessed the use of tobacco, alcohol, inhalants, and other psychoactive substances through standardised screening methods.

Researchers noted that peer influence, academic stress, family conflicts, and easy access to addictive substances were among the major factors contributing to the increased risk. They also observed that substance use often coexisted with anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns, making early detection crucial.

Health experts involved in the study stressed that adolescence is a critical period for physical, emotional, and psychological development. They warned that substance use during these formative years could have lasting effects on brain development, academic performance, and overall well-being.

The study recommends integrating routine substance-use screening into school health programmes and strengthening counselling services in educational institutions. Researchers also called for greater parental awareness and community-based initiatives to help identify at-risk adolescents before substance use becomes a serious dependency.

Public health specialists believe that preventive education, life-skills training, and accessible mental health services can significantly reduce the likelihood of substance misuse among teenagers. They emphasized that collaborative efforts involving schools, families, healthcare providers, and policymakers are essential to address the issue effectively.

The findings add to growing evidence that substance use among adolescents is emerging as an important public health challenge in India, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive prevention strategies aimed at safeguarding the country's youth.