Torrevieja Approves Drug Prevention Plan in Schools and Secondary Institutions

The City Council of Torrevieja (Alicante province) has approved the implementation of a drug prevention and addiction awareness program in local schools and secondary institutions. The decision was adopted by the Local Government Board on February 20, 2026.

The initiative includes contracting a specialized service to deliver preventive sessions in primary schools and secondary institutes. The program aims to prevent substance use and strengthen protective behavioral factors among students.

The project is scheduled to run from January 1, 2026, to December 31, 2027, with the possibility of a two-year extension.

According to published municipal information, the budget for the initial two years is €66,697.12 and could reach €133,394.24 if fully extended.

The activities will be carried out with the participation of the Municipal Unit for the Prevention of Addictive Behaviors.

Youth drug use in Spain: current trends

Recent studies show a generally stabilizing or declining trend in the use of certain substances among students, although the issue remains socially relevant.

According to the European ESPAD survey, the share of 15–16-year-olds who have ever tried illegal drugs decreased from about 19% in 2015 to around 14% in 2024 — the lowest level recorded. Cannabis use has also declined, with approximately 12% reporting having tried it at least once.

Spain’s national ESTUDES survey of students aged 14–18 indicates historically low levels of tobacco and cannabis use. Around 21% report having tried cannabis at least once, lower than in previous years. Recent alcohol and tobacco consumption has also decreased.

However, alcohol remains the most commonly used psychoactive substance among adolescents. Studies indicate that first use often occurs around ages 13–14, and tobacco and cannabis are still perceived by teenagers as relatively accessible.

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