A recent survey out of the U.S. indicates that young adults are binge drinking less in favour of smoking and consuming marijuana and hallucinogens. Dr. Darren Courtney, a youth psychiatrist from the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), said while he’s not aware of Canadian research on the issue, he has seen the patterns of substance use shift amongst the younger generations.

The survey, which began collecting data in 1975, determined there was a rise in those using marijuana and hallucinogens — like LSD and magic mushrooms — in 2020, according to ABC News.

Youth are particularly vulnerable to the effects of cannabis. Research has shown the brain is not fully developed until around the age of 25, says Health Canada.

Frequent cannabis use has also been associated with an increased risk of suicide, depression and anxiety disorders, according to the government site.

While young Canadians are using cannabis to deal with mental health issues, there is also an increased risk of developing more serious illnesses such as schizophrenia and psychosis.

“Some youth tell us that they’ve been using cannabis more and alcohol less during the pandemic,” says Hawke, who admitted that lockdowns are likely the reason.

“This might be because they’re spending more time at home alone or with family or roommates, and less time out partying with friends.”