Online-based charity YouthNet has this week published a report giving new insight into the recreational drug habits of 16 to 25-year-olds in the UK.

Over 600 people took part in the survey, and nearly two thirds confirmed that they had taken recreational drugs, whilst nearly a third said they’d done so before turning 16. However, 52% said drugs had affected relationships with friends, whilst 47% said they had affected romantic relationships. A significant 45% agreed that recreational drug taking had affected their mental health, whilst 43% said drugs had compromised academic studies and 41%, finances.

The YouthNet survey also revealed that males were more likely than females to take drugs – 72% compared with 56% - but, crucially, that young people feel ‘suitable information’ on drugs is both needed and lacking. A whopping 77% agreed more education is needed.

For more, visit www.youthnet.org