OMNI Institute utilizes its expertise in survey design and implementation to create robust tools like the Young Adult Survey (YAS), a cornerstone initiative that examines behavioral health risk factors, substance use patterns, and perceptions among young adults aged 18-25. The YAS, developed in partnership with the Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services, has been deployed statewide in Virginia and Alabama and locally in Colorado. It is informed by a comprehensive review of existing surveys, such as BRFSS and NSDUH, and tailored to address emerging topics like fentanyl awareness, gambling behaviors, and the mental health impacts of COVID-19.

OMNI’s process for supporting survey implementation involves strategic design, multilingual access, tailored outreach materials, and ongoing technical assistance. The 2024 Virginia YAS collected over 5,900 responses, representing diverse demographics and yielding critical insights, including declines in overall substance use rates since 2022 but increases in risky behaviors like binge drinking and driving under the influence. The 2024 YAS findings underscore the importance of data-driven prevention strategies, revealing significant trends such as decreased depression and suicidal ideation rates but elevated gambling participation, especially sports betting. The survey also highlights persistent disparities among marginalized populations, including higher substance use rates and mental health challenges among LGBQ+ and transgender individuals. Download the report to read the full findings and analysis.