Twice as Many Teenagers Hospitalized Due to Intoxicating Substances

Compared to last year, this autumn the number of teenagers who have used intoxicating substances and ended up in the hospital has doubled, according to information published by the Children's Clinical University Hospital (BKUS).

During the autumn break, 15 young people were admitted to the Children's Hospital after using alcohol or other substances. The youngest patient was 12 years old. The hospital considers these figures alarming and urges parents to talk to teenagers about where and with whom they spend their time.

In total, during the autumn break week from October 19 to 25, 1279 children and teenagers sought help at the Children's Hospital Emergency Medical Center, averaging 180 each day. Compared to last year's autumn break week, there were a fifth more patients this year. The largest influx of patients was at the end of the break week.

However, compared to regular school weeks, the break was slightly calmer. In September and October, the hospital provided assistance to an average of 1530 patients per week, and even 1660 in mid-October. During the break, there were approximately 17% fewer patients.