Cape Town expands youth substance abuse support as teen cannabis use rises (opens original article in a new tab)

Cape Town introduces expanded youth substance abuse support groups as teen cannabis use rises, linked to social factors like poverty and gang activity. A study highlights high rates of alcohol and cannabis use among adolescents, prompting the city's intervention through psychosocial programmes and school collaboration.

• Cape Town expands youth substance abuse support groups at Matrix treatment site in Tafelsig
• Adolescent cannabis use rises in Western Cape, linked to gang activity, poverty, and easy drug access
• Study shows high rates of alcohol and cannabis use among South African youth, with polysubstance use as emerging concern
• City's programme addresses substance use through psychosocial interventions, school collaboration, and family involvement
• Parents face challenges in supporting children due to social issues like gangsterism and domestic violence