Spanish Teens Shift from Substance Use to Digital Risks, Report Reveals
Spanish teens are using fewer substances but facing increased digital risks, according to the ESTUDES 2025 report, prompting a shift in public health focus
Key Points
- 1Spanish teens show decreased substance use but increased digital risks
- 2ESTUDES 2025 survey involved over 35,000 students across Spain
- 3Gambling, especially online, is rising among male teenagers
- 44,916 admissions for behavioral addiction treatment in 2023
- 5Public policy is shifting focus from substances to digital risks
The latest ESTUDES 2025 report from Spain's National Plan on Drugs highlights a significant shift in risk behaviors among Spanish teenagers. Conducted between February and June 2025, the survey involved over 35,000 students and revealed a decline in alcohol, tobacco, and cannabis use. However, it also pointed to a rise in problematic behaviors associated with gambling and digital environments, presenting new challenges for policymakers and health authorities
The report, backed by the Ministry of Health and the Spanish Observatory on Drugs and Addictions, provides a comprehensive overview of substance use and behavioral addictions among teenagers aged 14 to 18. While substance use has decreased, gambling, particularly online, has become more prevalent, especially among males. Health Minister Monica Garcia noted this as a positive trend in terms of substance use, emphasizing that young people in Spain now exhibit the healthiest habits seen in 25 years
Despite the decline in traditional substance use, the report warns of the growing risk associated with gambling. According to the findings, the frequency of gambling and the amounts wagered are increasing, particularly in sports betting and slot machines. Secretary of State for Health Javier Padilla highlighted the importance of using this data to guide public policy on prevention and treatment of behavioral addictions, as the focus shifts from substance use to digital risks
The report also addresses teenagers' interactions with digital screens, noting a decrease in pornography consumption. However, more than half of young people reported engaging with such content in the past year. Xisca Sureda, the Government Delegate for Spain's National Plan on Drugs, emphasized the report's aim to understand the evolving landscape of behavioral addictions. With 4,916 admissions for treatment related to behavioral addictions in 2023, the findings underscore the need for a comprehensive approach to address these emerging challenges