The event provides information about vapes, nitrous oxide, alcohol and new risks
The addiction prevention agencies of Darmstadt and the Darmstadt-Dieburg district invite you to an information event about current substance use trends among young people. The event will take place on April 9, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the addiction support center of the Caritas Association Darmstadt e.V.
The focus is on developments in the consumption habits of adolescents and young adults between 14 and 27 years of age. Topics include vapes, snus, nitrous oxide, cannabis and alcohol , as well as new products such as so-called nicotine toothpicks.
New forms of consumption and health risks
Many of the new products are considered particularly accessible entry points for young people. For example, nicotine toothpicks deliver nicotine through the oral mucosa and are sometimes used as a discreet alternative to cigarettes or vapes.
Experts warn, however, that these products also pose a high risk of rapid nicotine addiction and that significant amounts of nicotine are sometimes ingested.
Panel of experts with specialist agencies
Participants in the event include specialists from Werkhof Darmstadt eV, the Caritas addiction support center, the public health department, and the Darmstadt-Dieburg police headquarters. In addition to expert presentations, a moderated panel discussion is planned, offering practical assessments and recommendations for parents, friends, and educational professionals.
“Protecting young people is a task for society as a whole,” explains Mayor Barbara Akdeniz. The aim of the event is to create transparency about consumer trends and to make existing support services visible.
Christel Sprößler, social affairs officer of the Darmstadt-Dieburg district, also emphasizes the importance of cooperation between different institutions to offer guidance and support to those affected and their families.
Registration deadline: April 1st
The event is aimed at parents, educators, multipliers, and other interested parties. Participation is free of charge.
Registration is possible until April 1, 2026, via email to psf@ladadi.de . Please include your name, first name, institution, and contact details.
Another event in the series on the topic of media consumption is planned for September.
(DARMSTADT – RED/PSD/stip)
