The study commenced in 2002 with 3000 school students in Victoria, and 3000 in Washington, U.S. who were surveyed in school on an annual basis. In Victoria, the study has continued to follow participants from school into young adulthood.  We gratefully acknowledge each participant’s ongoing involvement which makes a vital contribution to increasing our understanding of the issues facing young people.  Findings from the study are being used successfully to advocate for policies in areas such as alcohol and drugs, bullying, violence, and mental health.

Other work planned for this year includes analysis of 2010 data to find out more about alcohol policies in the workplace and in sporting and entertainment contexts, and looking at a range of other issues relevant to

young adults including mental health, drink driving and domestic violence.     We will also seek funding to continue following the USA participants; this will enable us to compare the experiences of young adults in Australia and the USA.

Find out more about the IYDS at our website:   www.iyds.org

If you’re an IYDS participant, you can friend us or keep up to date through our facebook page:   www.facebook.com/IYDS.AUS