The Proportion of drug consumption, abuse and addiction among adolescent refugees in Germany

Overall, 38% of the study participants met the criteria for unhealthy substance use (12% solely for unhealthy tobacco use). According to self-ratings, 21% of the refugees met the criteria for unhealthy alcohol use, 25% for unhealthy tobacco use and 12% for unhealthy cannabis use. Young refugees who had already used drugs in their country of origin were more susceptible to developing unhealthy substance use. Identifying as religious seems to reduce the risk for unhealthy substance use. The results reveal that unaccompanied refugees are highly vulnerable for unhealthy substance use. Special programs for unhealthy substance use prevention are needed for this group.