How Does Weed Affect the Brain of Teenagers And Young Adults

Marijuana also known as cannabis is the second most common substance used by teenagers.In fact, it’s known to be the most widely abused substance by adolescents for 40 years already. Studies show that teens who use marijuana heavily show poor mental performance related to memory, language, and reasoning. Understanding how marijuana affects the brain, the risks it carries, and how to recognize the warning signs of teenage marijuana addiction are all necessary to comprehend why teens are drawn to this drug.

Marijuana Consumption Among Adolescents and Young Adults 

Marijuana is reported to be widely abused by adolescents and young adults from ages 12 to 25 years old. You can see below the key statistics on marijuana consumption among adolescents and young adults:

Ages 12-17:

• Over 1.6 million individuals in this age group, accounting for 6.5% of the U.S. adolescent population, reported current use of marijuana.
• Nearly half (44%) of 12th graders, one-third (33%) of 10th graders, and one in seven (14%) 8th graders reported lifetime marijuana use in 2018.
• In the same year, 22%, 17%, and 5.6% of U.S. 12th, 10th, and 8th graders reported past-month marijuana use, respectively.
• Daily marijuana use was reported by 5.8% of 12th graders, 3.4% of 10th graders, and 0.7% of 8th graders.
• Rates of current marijuana use among 12- to 17-year-olds decreased between 2002 and 2009 and have remained stable since 2015.

Ages 18-25:

• Approximately 7.6 million individuals in this age group, representing 22.5% of the U.S. young adult population, reported current use of marijuana.
• Rates of current cannabis use among young adults have risen significantly since 2002.
• Prevalence rates of marijuana use in 19–22-year-old ‘college-age’ young adults have gradually increased since 2009 and are approaching their highest levels in the past three decades.
• Daily marijuana use among college-enrolled youth peaked at 5.9% in 2014 and has plateaued, while daily use for non-college-enrolled youth, at 13.2%, is currently at an all-time high in the past three decades.
• The gap in daily marijuana use between college-enrolled and non-college-enrolled youth continues to widen, raising concerns about the adverse health and functioning impacts of recreational weed use.

Marijuana’s Adverse Effects on the Developing Brain

The use of marijuana can directly affect the brain’s function, especially for a teenager’s developing brain. An individual’s brain is not yet fully developed until they reach the age of 25. The pre-frontal cortex, which is responsible for judgment and decision-making, is still underdeveloped in a teen’s brain.

Marijuana’s primary component is tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), and it alters brain function, which can lead to hallucinations or paranoia. In an adolescent’s underdeveloped brain, the effect of THC may be more severe. Marijuana has adverse effects on the developing brain, both in the short and long term, such as:

Short-term effects (24 hours):

• Poor short-term memory
• Impaired judgment and coordination
• Inability to focus
• Altered perception of time
• Altered motor skills
• Slow reaction time
• Possible negative effects academically

Long-term effects (Frequent use):

• Poor memory
• Learning deficiency
• Decreased IQ
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Increased risk of mental health issues
• Impaired brain structure and connectivity
• Poor academic performance
• Potential negative impact on life satisfaction

Long-Term Risks Tied to Marijuana Consumption During Teenage and Young Adult Years

The long-term risks tied to marijuana consumption are quite alarming. Research has consistently shown adverse effects on cognitive development and mental health, especially with the early and frequent use of cannabis. Here are the long-term risks associated with marijuana abuse:

Potential for addiction

Using marijuana regularly at a young age can lead to potential addiction since the teenage brain is more susceptible to the addictive properties of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Persistent use can lead to dependence, and the user may find it difficult to stop using cannabis.

Increased risk of mental health issues

Marijuana usage during the teenage years has been related to an increased risk of mental health problems, such as anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts. The components of cannabis can alter the chemistry of the brain, which can worsen mental health problems.

Impaired driving

Marijuana use can impair motor skills, slow down reaction time, and may lead to a lack of focus. These factors are vital when driving, wherein alertness and concentration are necessary to navigate the road.

Difficulty in thinking and problem-solving

Early marijuana use can impair thinking and problem-solving abilities. Cognitive problems such as poor memory, impaired logical reasoning, and cognitive flexibility challenges can manifest.

Difficulty maintaining attention

Attention span can be affected by the use of marijuana. This may lead to poor academic performance or problems at work, especially with tasks that require attention, focus, and mental effort. 

Challenges in performance at school or work

Regular marijuana use may impair academic or occupational performance, affecting attendance, productivity, and overall accomplishment. Marijuana’s cognitive and motivational impacts can impair one’s capacity to handle the demands of the classroom or workplace.

Relationship problems

Marijuana use can contribute to relationship problems, as its effects on mood, cognition, and behavior may lead to interpersonal conflicts. Communication breakdowns and emotional challenges may impact personal and professional relationships.

Problems with memory and learning

Since marijuana affects brain chemistry, it can result in memory problems and the ability to learn and retain new information. This effect can create difficulties at school, in the workplace, in relationships, and in life.

Reduced coordination and reaction time

Marijuana’s effects on motor skills and response time might impair coordination, resulting in poor performance in activities that require accuracy and quick reflexes. This includes activities like driving, manual jobs, or participating in sports.

Increased susceptibility to depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts

Since marijuana can alter the chemical properties of the brain, it can make a person more susceptible to mental health problems such as anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation. It can worsen or trigger any existing mental health conditions.

Overall lower life satisfaction

Marijuana use lowers the life satisfaction level of an individual due to a lot of factors. Compromised relationships, school and work problems, and altered daily life functions can make a person feel less fulfilled and have diminished well-being. 

Signs Your Child May Be Mishandling Marijuana Use

Recognizing a child mishandling marijuana use in the early stage is essential to avoid long-term and possibly permanent effects. Here are common signs that your child may be struggling with the use of cannabis:

Unable to focus

Marijuana impacts cognitive abilities, so a youngster who uses it irresponsibly may have problems focusing. This could appear as a drop in academic performance, issues with attention and memory, and a general lack of concentration in daily tasks.

Unusual laughing

Weed can alter mood and perception, resulting in excessive or unusual laughter. Misusing marijuana may manifest in displaying exaggerated, unrelated, or inappropriate laughter that can be pretty disturbing.

Hostile, angry, uncooperative

Irritability and hostility are also indicators of marijuana misuse. A child mishandling marijuana may exhibit aggression, indifference, or unwillingness to cooperate with other people.

Avoids eye contact

One common effect of marijuana misuse is dilated or bloodshot eyes. Your child may try to hide this by avoiding eye contact.

Locks doors

If your teen is being secretive and consistently locking doors, it may indicate a desire for privacy to hide marijuana use. You can observe a shift in their behavior towards being open to their personal space.

Has cash flow problems

Financial difficulties can arise due to marijuana abuse because the individual may prioritize purchasing the substance over essential needs. A sudden lack or need of money can be an indicator of substance abuse.

Bloodshot eyes

Marijuana can cause the blood vessels in our eyes to dilate. Constant bloodshot eyes are a common sign of using weed, primarily if it’s not related to allergies or lack of sleep. 

Forgetfulness

Marijuana can decrease memory function, causing forgetfulness and difficulties recalling facts. A youngster who uses marijuana may experience more significant amnesia, forgetting crucial tasks, appointments, or things that they would typically remember.

Smelling clothes

Marijuana’s scent can persist on clothes, and a child who has used the substance may have that particular stench. Detecting the odor on their clothes, especially if it lingers despite attempts to hide it, may indicate marijuana use.

Room filled with a distinct odor

Marijuana has a distinct smell, and storing it or smoking it in a room can result in a particular smell that may linger on the walls. Take notice of this distinct smell, especially if it’s consistent.

Poor hygiene

A decline in personal hygiene, such as failing to shower or change clothes, may indicate marijuana abuse. The drug’s effect on motivation and self-care may lead to poor hygiene habits, visible changes in appearance, and a general disregard for personal upkeep.

What parents need to know about substance use

Parents need to be informed about various aspects of marijuana use to address and prevent substance misuse among their children effectively:

• Educate your children about the risks and consequences of marijuana use from an early age. Equip children with the correct information so they can make informed decisions.

• Be aware of the signs of marijuana misuse. These may include changes in behavior, declining academic performance, altered mood, or physical indicators like bloodshot eyes and the distinct smell of marijuana.

• Communicate the family’s stance on marijuana, emphasizing the potential consequences of misuse.

• It is vital to foster an environment where children feel comfortable discussing their experiences and concerns without fear of judgment. Be open to discussion instead of being judgmental.

• Acknowledge the role of peer pressure and educate children on making independent, responsible choices. Discuss strategies for resisting peer pressure and the importance of boundaries.

• Emphasize protecting cognitive function and mental health during crucial developmental stages.

• Teach children healthy ways to cope with stress, anxiety, and peer pressures that don’t involve substance use, such as sports, arts and crafts, and fellowship. 

• Be a role model to your children in making healthy choices.

• Stay informed about your child’s social circles and monitor their interactions. Be involved in the relationships they create

• If parents suspect or observe problematic substance use, seeking professional help immediately is crucial.

Frequently Asked Questions about Effects of Marijuana on Brain