Marijuana use among U.S. adolescents continued to decline in 2025 even as adult consumption increased, according to the latest National Survey on Drug Use and Health released by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.
According to the report, the findings challenge earlier predictions that broader marijuana legalisation would lead to a sharp rise in cannabis use among teenagers.
The report said marijuana use among adolescents aged 12 to 17 has fallen steadily in recent years. Past-month use declined from 6.1 percent in 2021 to 5.0 percent in 2025, while 8.7 percent of teenagers reported using marijuana at least once during the previous year.
Despite the encouraging trends in youth substance use, experts cautioned that significant challenges remain.
Robyn Oster, policy director at the Partnership to End Addiction, said further efforts are needed to improve access to prevention and treatment services for young people.
By comparison, about 7 percent of adults aged 18 and older reported similar levels of anxiety, highlighting the ongoing need for mental health support among young people.
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Federal survey shows promising trends for youth mental health and drug use https://t.co/CprmMQMoSY
— The Washington Times (@WashTimes) July 28, 2026
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TIPP Staff
