Marijuana for recreational and medicinal purposes is becoming more widely available and simpler to purchase every day. Furthermore, opinions about the drug's possible risks have changed as a result of recent legislative modifications, especially among young teenagers.
While proper use of marijuana can offer health benefits for specific conditions, inappropriate use can lead to a variety of problems. It can severely impact health, situational judgment, memory, coordination, and more.
Given that marijuana has rapidly become a much more commonly used drug among young people, it is crucial to recognize the main signs of marijuana use in teens to ensure their safety and well-being.
Statistics on Child Marijuana Use
Though the stats may surprise you, marijuana is the most often used narcotic among teenagers. Among children between the ages of 12 and 17, the National Center for Drug Abuse reports that:
- Nearly 44% have tried marijuana in their lifetime, up from 37% in 2019.
- 35% used marijuana in the past year.
- Almost 7% of 12th graders use marijuana daily.
Regretfully, eighth, ninth, and tenth kids are exposed to an alarmingly high level of marijuana. Early usage is problematic since those who start using earlier have a greater likelihood of heavier use later in life.
How THC Impacts the Brain
The active element in cannabis is tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which produces the "high" associated with marijuana. THC can be ingested by smoking cannabis flowers, vaping concentrated forms, or eating THC-infused foods. THC impacts the brain by interfering with processes that are typically controlled by naturally existing endocannabinoids.
The brain grows from birth to the mid-twenties, and consuming marijuana at a young age can interrupt this important development. Early marijuana usage appears to influence brain development, according to recent research.
The effects of cannabis on the brain are extensive:
- Executive Functioning: Skills necessary for daily life, such as focus, memory, problem-solving, planning, reasoning, and emotional control, are compromised.
- Working Memory: The ability to remember and later recall or use information is reduced.
- Lingering Effects: The impact of cannabis use can last well beyond the period of intoxication. Even if someone smokes on a weekend, the effects can persist into the following week. Regular use leads to a persistent decline in executive functioning, working memory, and other cognitive areas.
Cannabis use interferes with the brain's circuits, and it remains uncertain whether the brain can fully recover if marijuana use is discontinued.
Signs Your Child is Using Cannabis
Recognizing if your child is using marijuana can involve noticing various signs, including:
- Hair or clothes with a pungent marijuana smell
- Red or bloodshot eyes
- Delayed reaction times
- Mood swings
- Laziness and tiredness
- Presence of marijuana-related paraphernalia
- Paranoia or anxiousness
- Increased hunger or "munchies"
Visible Signs of Marijuana Use
Shortly after usage, marijuana's effects can be perceived both visually and aromatically. It is very suggestive of marijuana usage if your adolescent returns home with red or bloodshot eyes. Physical and mental delays in response times and problems with muscular coordination are further symptoms.
Cannabis has a unique fragrance that is another warning clue; it is frequently characterized as having a pungent, musky smell like that of a skunk. On your teen's clothes, this odor might cling rather readily.
Changes in Emotional State
The body and mind might react differently to different strains or varieties of marijuana. Teenage marijuana usage is frequently indicated by mood swings, lethargy, and general exhaustion in their day-to-day demeanor. Depending on how their body responds, they might also seem nervous and exhibit an elevated heart rate.
Your youngster may struggle to focus at job, school, or home as a result of these changes, which frequently results in subpar performance and grades. This decrease might be a clear indication that marijuana use has turned into an addiction.
Educating Your Child about Marijuana
Regardless of whether you suspect your child is using cannabis, it’s important to discuss it. Parents and caregivers should talk about all types of dangerous substances, including nicotine, alcohol, and cannabis, with children as early as elementary school.
It's important to be proactive and talk to your youngster about the risks associated with marijuana. These talks may serve to deter marijuana usage or at the very least postpone the initial experience until the mid-20s, when the brain is more completely matured.
As teenagers become older, their need for independence grows, which makes it harder for parents to control their actions. Still, parents need to persevere. It is significantly more dangerous to consume cannabis than it is uncomfortable to have a difficult talk.
Addressing Marijuana Use and Seeking Help
For teenagers' wellbeing, it is essential to identify and treat marijuana usage. It's crucial to handle the matter with compassion and support if you think your child may be consuming marijuana. Discussing its usage, the rationale behind it, and any possible hazards should come first in an honest and nonjudgmental discussion. Give your child access to a secure environment where they may talk about their thoughts and experiences. You can gain insight into their viewpoint and advice on how to make better decisions by having this discussion.
If using marijuana has become troublesome, you might think about getting professional assistance. Resources like therapists, counselors, and specialty treatment programs can provide your kid with the help they need. These specialists are qualified to deal with underlying problems including stress, peer pressure, or mental health disorders that may be causing drug use. Early intervention can stop the usage from getting worse and support your kid in creating healthy coping mechanisms. Getting a medical expert involved can also offer a methodical way to handle the matter and guarantee that your adolescent gets the treatment they need.
It is critical to be involved and supportive throughout the process. Encourage your kid to participate in activities that support their well-being and offer positive reinforcement for good habits. Stay educated about the services available in your area, and consider joining support groups for parents struggling with similar challenges. You can assist your child in navigating this difficult period and promote a healthy, drug-free future by keeping open communication and obtaining expert support as required.
Bottom Line
Parents need to be vigilant about the signs of marijuana use in their children, given its prevalence among teenagers and its potential impact on their health and development. Early detection, open communication, and seeking professional help if needed are key strategies for addressing marijuana use in adolescents. By providing support, education, and access to resources, parents can help guide their children towards healthier choices and a drug-free future.
HOW TO HAVE "THE TALK" WITH YOUR KIDS, READ ON..
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