Patterns of Substance Use in Entertainment Venues in Latvia:

A number of surveys in Europe, including Latvia, show that the level of drug use among young people in entertainment venues is significantly higher than among youth in general (according to EMCDDA). Monitoring surveys carried-out in Latvia in 2000, 2008 and 2012 support this conclusion. Over the last 12 years, changes in the models of alcohol and illicit drug use were identified: young people try these substances at very young age, the drugs distribution market is very saturated and offers wide variety of substances, including legal highs. At the moment the poly-use model is dominating, i.e., using several substances simultaneously (alcohol, legal and illegal drugs). Our analysis of the spread of drug use and affecting factors is based on quantitative data (n=400 in 2000, n=600 in 2008 and n=800 in 2012) and semi-structured interviews with field experts and owners of entertainment venues.

The results show that young people admit the fact that drugs became an integral part of modern youth entertainment and club subculture. Drug choices are made to suit particular entertainment purposes and driven by desires of achieving known effect. In order to minimise risks young people avoid injecting drugs and prefer not to use substances with distinct and strong smell (for instance, marihuana); at the same time drugs in pills or plasters are in favour. We can speak as well about the prevalence of substances with stimulant effect that offer effect appreciated by some users: catching unexperienced energy, feelings of parallel realities etc. Another alarming trend is poly-use that increases the risk of overdose and intoxication. Poly-use combinations can include alcohol, legal medications, and various illegal drugs.