FESTIVE DRUG USE PLANNED BY YOUNGSTERS

NEARLY one in ten young people expects to use drugs over the festive
season, research revealed today. A survey found 20 per cent of users
said they turned to drugs to help them deal with stress.

Half of the 16 to 21-year-olds questioned said they smoked cannabis,
or took cocaine or ecstasy to help them "let go".

The survey for the Government drugs information service Frank
discovered one in four youngsters will go out every night over the
festive period.

One in six said they were bored by the prospect of being stuck at
home with their family and half expected arguments.

A spokesman warned that using drugs was not an "antidote to stress".

Chris Hudson said: "For some, Christmas can be a stressful time of year.

"Going over the top with your celebrations and using drugs isn't an
antidote to stress and can be harmful."