Preventing new substance use behaviors in youth: evaluation of a two-year comprehensive program.

Introduction: The Avenir Santé Association implemented a comprehensive prevention program targeting the consumption of the emerging psychoactive substances ecstasy (MDMA), cannabidiol (CBD), and nitrous oxide (NO).

Methods: The program was evaluated through four actions: (i) training for association workers ( = 84) (ii) on-site student party interventions ( = 248), (iii) social network-based prevention ( = 186), and (iv) provision of prevention tools for party organizers ( = 148).

Results: Results showed a significant increase in understanding of emerging substances among association workers, with a pre-training score of = 15.76 (SD = 3.65) and a post-training score of = 18.29 (SD = 2.50). Increased awareness and reflective attitudes toward substance use were observed among young people participating in field actions, with pre- and post-intervention scores for MDMA use intentions being = 15.89 (SD = 4.60) and = 19.17 (SD = 3.33), respectively. Similarly, awareness of CBD effects increased from = 14.18 (SD = 4.14) to = 17.60 (SD = 3.31). Exposure to Instagram posts on NO led to more negative attitudes toward NO among young people, with a significant change in scores from = 8.16 (SD = 1.57) to = 8.42 (SD = 1.26). However, exposure to a website providing information about emerging substances did not produce any significant effect.

Discussion: In conclusion, this initiative underscores the usefulness of facilitator training, field interventions, and certain online information strategies for substance judgment and usage intentions. Future prevention programs can advantageously incorporate these actions.