ABSTRACT
This chapter attempts to demonstrate some complicated ethical issues arising in relation to young people and substance use. It discusses individuals who use substances regardless of whether they meet the diagnostic criteria. Many people who engage in substance use struggle to achieve their potential, particularly in relation to education and employment. Crime and public disorder often bring the young person into conflict with their wider community but there are frequent struggles to engage with their immediate family and local community. So, while many people engaged in substance use may not meet the criteria for a mental health problem, there can still be considerable deficits in relation to their mental health. Justice requires that all people are treated equally and that no one is discriminated against. This might include having to ensure that treatments are received by those who most need them. However, there are occasions when people are not treated equally, often due to the problems they present.
