In most developed countries, substance use is a major public health issue, particularly among young people. Alcohol and other drug use is one of the leading risk factors for disease and injury and is also responsible for a considerable number of premature deaths. The national drugs strategy in Ireland aims to prevent early substance use and to minimise harm for those who have already started to use substances. The strategy also plans to develop existing prevention programmes, with an emphasis on tackling risk factors for vulnerable groups and improving services for young people.

Using multiple information sources, this overview outlines the prevalence of alcohol and other drug use among young people in Ireland. It examines the risk and protective factors that may encourage or discourage young people to begin using such substances and/or lead to problematic use. It also examines the consequences of drug and alcohol use, such as hospitalisations, deaths, and crime. This overview outlines the responses to drug and alcohol use among young people, including treatment data and the strategies and legislation that guide stakeholders in preventing and minimising harm due to substance use.