Studies show young adults ages 18 to 25, also defined as transition-age youth (TAY), are at high risk for substance misuse—particularly alcohol and marijuana use. Non-student TAY are also at a higher risk of developing alcohol use disorders.
While prevention efforts for this age group have primarily focused on those who attend a four-year college, SAMHSA compiled information on how to address alcohol and substance misuse among young adults who are exploring their futures outside of a four-year college. These individuals may be in the workforce, enrolled in community college, or exploring other endeavors.
Due to the gap in prevention messaging for TAY taking different paths in their lives, there is tremendous opportunity for professionals and others who interface with young adults to play a role in connecting young adults to information about substance use and services that can help them make healthy choices as they enter adulthood.
Find SAMHSA’s mini-campaign at https://www.stopalcoholabuse.gov/communitiestalk/minicampaigns/.