Abstinence Records Set
Two-thirds of 12th graders reported no use of alcohol, marijuana, cigarettes, or e-cigarettes in the past 30 days, the highest abstinence rate since 2017.
Among 10th graders, 80% and 90% of 8th graders also reported abstaining from these substances, setting new records for both grade levels.
Emerging Trends and Expert Insights
The only notable increase was in the use of nicotine pouches, with 6% of 12th graders reporting use, up from 3% in 2023.
Experts attribute the sustained low substance use to the pandemic's impact on social interactions and peer influence, alongside potential factors like increased mental health concerns.