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PolDrugs 2025: results of the third edition of the nationwide study on psychoactive substance use in the context of psychiatry and harm reduction

Summary

This Polish study surveyed nearly 2,500 recreational drug users about their substance use patterns and mental health. The survey found that marijuana is the most commonly used illicit drug, but worryingly, most users don’t test what they’re taking or measure doses carefully. The study also revealed increasing use of mephedrone and other stimulants that are sending more people to hospitals, while interest in psychedelics is declining. Importantly, more people are now seeing psychiatrists and being honest about their drug use.

Background

PolDrugs is a biennial epidemiological study analyzing patterns of illicit psychoactive substance use in Poland in the context of psychiatry and harm reduction. This third edition builds on surveys conducted in 2020/2021 and 2022/2023, comparing trends over time to understand evolving drug use patterns in Polish society.

Objective

To assess possible changes and recent trends in psychoactive substance use patterns in Poland, comparing results with previous PolDrugs editions from 2021 and 2023, with focus on patterns, demographics, and psychiatric care interactions.

Results

Study population averaged 27 years old, predominantly male (56.1%) and urban (56.1%). Marijuana was most common illicit substance (97.9% lifetime use, 85% past 12 months). Key findings: 83.6% never tested substances; 51.4% dosed by visual estimation; 60% neglected responsibilities; 43.1% received psychiatric treatment; 70.5% used illicit substances before first psychiatrist visit. Mephedrone use and medical consultations for stimulants increased significantly.

Conclusion

Stimulant use, particularly mephedrone derivatives, is rising with increasing medical consultations. Solitary substance use exceeds 25% and is increasing. Psychedelic use is declining possibly due to reduced media attention. Growing acceptance of psychiatric care is evident in Polish society, alongside shifting patterns in substance acquisition and harm reduction practices.
  • Published in:Frontiers in Psychiatry,
  • Study Type:Epidemiological Survey,
  • Source: PMID: 40656049, PMCID: PMC12245868, DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2025.1591658
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