Andorra Warns of Youths' Riskier Binge Drinking Patterns

Andorra's Ministry of Health has warned of shifting alcohol consumption habits among young people, who now drink less frequently but consume larger amounts in shorter bursts, heightening health risks.

Glòria Domènech, projects manager for the National Plan against Drug Addiction, addressed the trend during the first day of the cross-border Copaj project meeting in Andorra. The initiative brings together Andorra, Catalunya, and Occitània to enhance addiction prevention for those aged 16 to 25 by sharing strategies and resources.

Domènech noted that participants often fail to recognize the lag between alcohol intake and its effects. This leads to more dangerous outcomes from rapid, heavy drinking, with recent cases of abusive consumption observed at festivals, nightlife spots, and popular events. In response, authorities are collaborating with communes, the government, and event organizers to introduce awareness campaigns and make celebrations safer.

Prevention efforts, she argued, should consider not only substances but also usage patterns, timing, and settings. The 2024 National Health Survey shows a significant decline in tobacco smoking, offset by growing use of vaping devices, which calls for updated public policies targeting these emerging products.

No particular drug has seen a sharp rise, Domènech said. Alcohol remains the most used substance among youth—legal and socially normalized—while cannabis leads among illicit drugs. Consumption patterns mirror those in neighboring regions, though Andorra's sparse population eases service delivery. High youth mobility, including extended study periods abroad, underscores the need for regional cooperation.

Social Affairs Minister Trini Marín launched the event, calling for unified action on cross-border challenges. She advocated incorporating young people's input into policies, alongside early interventions, family support, and readily available services.