the most common substances abused by young people in South Africa included:
Alcohol: Alcohol remains the most commonly abused substance among young people in South Africa. Binge drinking and underage alcohol consumption are prevalent issues.
Cannabis (Marijuana): Cannabis use is widespread, and it is often the first illicit drug that young individuals experiment with.
Methamphetamine (Tik/Crystal Meth): Methamphetamine abuse has been on the rise in South Africa, affecting many young people due to its highly addictive nature.
Nyaope (a street drug mixture): Nyaope is a dangerous and highly addictive street drug made from a mixture of heroin, cannabis, and other substances. It is particularly prevalent among marginalized youth in townships.
Prescription Drugs: Abuse of prescription medications, particularly painkillers and sedatives, is a growing concern among young people.
Ecstasy (MDMA): MDMA, often sold in pill form as ecstasy, is popular in club and party scenes among young adults.
Cocaine: Cocaine abuse, although not as widespread as other substances, is still a concern among certain segments of young people, particularly in urban areas.
Inhalants: Inhalant abuse, involving the inhalation of household or industrial chemicals for intoxication, is a problem among some young individuals.
It's important to note that substance abuse trends can change over time, and new drugs may emerge or become more prevalent. Additionally, substance abuse can vary based on geographic location, socioeconomic factors, and cultural influences. Therefore, it is essential to refer to more recent and localized data to gain a current understanding of the specific substances abused by young people in South Africa. Governments and organizations in South Africa are continuously working on implementing prevention, treatment, and support programs to address the challenges of substance abuse among young people.