Substance use among Faroese youth: What influences their choices?

In recent years, the Faroe Islands have seen a significant rise in the confiscation of illegal drugs. Police data show that while approximately one kilogram of hash was seized in 2010, this figure had increased to 53 kilograms in 2023. This suggests a growing availability, and use of substances in Faroese.

Regarding alcohol consumption, data from alcohol monopoly Rúsan indicates that the average annual per capita consumption was 6.7 liters of pure alcohol in 2021, with an additional 1.2 liters sold through duty-free outlets, totaling 7.9 liters per person that year. This consumption remains relatively stable, with beer accounting for most alcohol consumed, while spirit consumption has decreased. Compared to Denmark, where the average consumption in 2021 was 10.4 liters per person, the Faroese drink less alcohol overall, although the gap is narrowing.

The introduction of Rúsan in 1992, which established a state monopoly on alcohol sales, increased accessibility. The debate continues on whether liberalizing the alcohol market could result in higher consumption, but health authorities caution that such a move may lead to negative health consequences.

A new study

A new study based on a survey of 362 young Faroese aged 15-25 years examines the factors influencing their decisions regarding substance use. The survey was conducted across the Faroe Islands using a snowball sampling method. Initially, participants were contacted from various regions, including both those abstaining from substances, those who consumed alcohol, and those who used illegal drugs. Nearly half of the respondents consume alcohol, and when they do, many drink large quantities at a time. Additionally, 7 per cent of the participants reported having used illegal substances, with cannabis being the most commonly used drug.

What influences youth substance use?

The study identifies several key factors that influence whether young Faroese choose to use or abstain from substances:

• Age and substance use: Alcohol and drug use increase with age. The youngest participants consume the least alcohol, while older youth have a higher consumption of both alcohol and illegal substances.
• Connection between nicotine, alcohol, and illegal substances: Young people who use nicotine products are also more likely to consume alcohol and drugs.
• Family relationships: Youth living with both parents are less likely to use substances, while those living alone or in more often consume alcohol or experiment with drugs.
• Physical and mental health: Poor sleep quality, unhealthy eating habits, and low physical fitness are more common among youth who use substances. Additionally, stress and psychiatric diagnoses are more prevalent among young people using illegal drugs.
• Gender differences in vulnerability: While girls are more likely to experience stress, anxiety, and depression, boys more often display aggression and impulsivity. Boys in vocational training (e.g., trades) are at particularly high risk for using illegal substances, especially those with ADHD-diagnosis or impulsive behavioral patterns.
• Social communities as a protective factor: Young people who participate in organized leisure activities, sports, or religious communities are less likely to use substances.

Sense of coherence: a protective factor

The study applies Antonovsky’s Sense of Coherence (SOC) theory to understand why some young people choose to abstain from substance use. According to Antonovsky, a strong sense of coherence is essential in handling life’s challenges and consists of three key elements:

• Comprehensibility: Understanding what is happening in one’s life and why.
• Manageability: The belief that one has the resources to cope with life’s challenges.
• Meaningfulness: A sense that life has direction and purpose.

Data show that youth with a high SOC are less likely to use substances, while those with a low SOC more frequently experience stress, sleep problems, and psychological challenges—factors linked to increased substance use. This supports the notion that a strong sense of coherence can serve as a protective factor against substance misuse.

Why is this important?

The study’s findings indicate that youth substance use is not solely influenced by the availability of substances but also by their everyday lives and social environments. Young people with strong social networks and meaningful communities have a lower risk of engaging in substance use. This highlights the need to strengthen protective factors in young people’s lives through preventive measures that promote stability and well-being.

Early intervention is crucial

To reduce substance use among youth, early intervention with support and guidance is essential. By equipping young people with the necessary tools to cope with challenges without resorting to substances, they can be helped to make healthier choices for the future. If youth receive support at the right time, it can contribute to improved well-being and provide better conditions for a healthy and purposeful life.

The article is written by Heidi Tvørfoss, Master i Rusmidler

on the request of PopNAD