Germany has reported a shocking increase in drug-related deaths among individuals under 30, with 528 young victims recorded in 2025. Federal Drug Commissioner Hendrik Streeck announced the figures during a press conference at the Patrida opioid addiction clinic in Berlin, expressing concern over the rising trend. The total number of drug-related deaths reached 2,150, marking a slight increase from 2,137 in 2024.
Rising Drug Deaths in Young Adults
According to Streeck, the percentage of drug-related deaths among those under 30 has increased by 53% since 2021. The total number of deaths in this age group has nearly doubled, with 106 individuals under 20 succumbing to drug use. The average age of all victims was 40.6 years. Streeck noted that psychological stress, crises, curiosity, and recklessness contribute to this alarming trend.
Deadly Substance Combinations
Data reveals that a staggering 81.5% of drug-related deaths were linked to the mixing of substances. Notably, there has been a 110.7% increase in deaths attributed to crack and cocaine since 2021. The rise of synthetic opioids, particularly fentanyl, has also been concerning, with 118 deaths reported in 2025, a significant rise from the previous year.
Concerns Over Prescription Medications
Another critical issue is the increase in fatalities related to prescription medications. Deaths associated with benzodiazepines and opioid pain relievers have more than doubled, from 365 in 2021 to 769 in 2025. Streeck highlighted the need for better education and prevention efforts targeted at young people, who may not fully comprehend the risks involved with drug use.
- Total drug-related deaths in Germany: 2,150
- Deaths among under-30s: 528
- Increase in under-20 deaths: 106 (almost double since 2021)
- Deaths linked to mixing substances: 81.5%
- Crack and cocaine-related deaths increase: 110.7% since 2021
- Fentanyl-related deaths: 118 in 2025
- Prescription medication deaths: 769 in 2025
Streeck has proposed a comprehensive monitoring system to identify dangerous substances in circulation, along with enhanced support services for young people affected by drug use. He emphasized that cities are struggling to cope with the consequences of rising drug use, stating, "This system is under pressure. Help is hard to come by in many places, too slow, and severely underfunded."
🤖 This article was rewritten by Feed and Figures' editorial AI from a report originally published by DW English. Facts and quotes are preserved from the original; the rewrite focuses on clarity and structure. For the unedited original, see the source link below.
