The multidimensional social ecological needs and service utilization patterns of youth using non-medical prescription opioids: an observational study of routinely collected data in a provincial integrated youth services initiative

This study examined how non-medical prescription opioid use (NMPOU) among youth aged 12–24 is linked to their health, social needs, and use of services within an integrated youth services network in British Columbia, Canada. Data from over 6,000 youth showed that 4% reported recent NMPOU. Youth who used prescription opioids non-medically were more likely to report poor physical health, mental health challenges, polydrug use, and recent exposure to violence. Despite these greater needs, their use of services was similar to youth who did not report NMPOU. The findings suggest that integrated youth services are well positioned to identify and support at-risk youth earlier, but more research is needed to assess their impact on preventing opioid-related harms.