Addiction in Poland - statistics & facts
Addiction is starting to be talked about more often and more openly in the Polish society. Even though the most common addiction in the country is alcoholism, disorders other than substance dependencies, including psychological and environmental, are present. Increasingly, a large part of the younger society is struggling with addiction to social media. The number of social media users in Poland is growing yearly and is expected to reach almost 36 million in 2029.
Six out of ten Poles admitted to smoking traditional tobacco products daily in 2023. In the ranking by smoking prevalence worldwide, Poland ranks 46th with a population share of 23.01 percent. However, tobacco warmers and e-cigarettes are increasingly competing with cigarettes. They are most popular by far among people between the ages of 18 and 24.
Poland, among the larger European countries, had the highest percentage of cannabidiol prevalence. When it comes to drugs, this term is not only used for illegal substances. In fact, it is increasingly common to encounter the term "designer drug," meaning that the substances have been designed in a way as to mimic the pharmacological effects of the original drug while avoiding classification as illegal. They were most popular among the 25-to-34 age group.
Even though addiction remains a challenge in the Polish society, there is a growing openness in talking about it, including in the media. This is being supported by the increasing number of facilities offering help with addiction and a decline in alcohol-related road accidents.
Physical addictions are the most prevalent
Alcohol is by far the most popular substance in Poland. Annual alcohol consumption per capita has increased in recent years, estimated at 11.74 liters of pure alcohol in 2024. The beverage that Poles drink the most is beer. Depending on gender, the alcohol consumption frequency differs. Men most often reach for alcohol several times a week, with most women consuming it once a month or less frequently.Six out of ten Poles admitted to smoking traditional tobacco products daily in 2023. In the ranking by smoking prevalence worldwide, Poland ranks 46th with a population share of 23.01 percent. However, tobacco warmers and e-cigarettes are increasingly competing with cigarettes. They are most popular by far among people between the ages of 18 and 24.
Poland, among the larger European countries, had the highest percentage of cannabidiol prevalence. When it comes to drugs, this term is not only used for illegal substances. In fact, it is increasingly common to encounter the term "designer drug," meaning that the substances have been designed in a way as to mimic the pharmacological effects of the original drug while avoiding classification as illegal. They were most popular among the 25-to-34 age group.
The effects of addictions
Addiction and irresponsible use of substances often affect the immediate environment and bystanders. In 2023, 2,074 alcohol-related traffic accidents were recorded in Poland. Even though this is more than half the number recorded in 2011, it is still a serious issue on the country's roads. In contrast, the number of crimes committed under the influence of drugs in 2022 exceeded 64,000. In response, the state is trying to provide assistance to addicts as well as their families. In the Lower Silesian province alone, nearly 13,000 people struggling with alcohol issues have sought help in that year.Even though addiction remains a challenge in the Polish society, there is a growing openness in talking about it, including in the media. This is being supported by the increasing number of facilities offering help with addiction and a decline in alcohol-related road accidents.
