Marijuana

The Growing Brain

Since a brain isn’t completely developed until around age 25, it’s important for parents to try to keep their children from using alcohol or other drugs that would impair the development of the brain.

THC, the main active chemical in marijuana, binds to places on the brain’s nerve cells called receptors when a person uses marijuana. This process weakens short-term memory. When a person is under the influence of marijuana, it’s possible that new information may never register in the brain. Not being able to remember something is bad enough, but today’s marijuana is increasingly creating psychotic episodes in young people.  If you have a child whose behavior has become increasingly moody or angry (other than typical teenage behavior) and you suspect he or she is using marijuana, you may consider making an appointment with a counselor who can conduct an assessment.

Facts for Parents:

 

  • Some youth have been fooled into believing marijuana is a “healthy” drug — because it’s a plant. In fact, marijuana is grown with a lot of toxic chemicals, so being healthy is a myth.
  • Some people say marijuana use isn’t addictive. In fact, more teens are in drug abuse treatment for marijuana dependence than for all other illicit drugs combined. It’s an addictive drug and it can impact a child’s learning and memory for days or weeks after the effects of the drug wear off. And 1 in 6 teens who use it will become addicted.
  • Some say marijuana use just makes a person mellow. In fact, marijuana use can cause tremors, nausea, decreased coordination and breathing problems.
  • Marijuana is not regulated by the FDA and using it for recreational purposes is illegal.
Read about: Marijuana Behaviors and Delinquent Behaviors Among Youth

 

Visit Marijuana: Get the Facts for educational cards you can print at home.

 

Know the Risks of Marijuana 

All About Marijuana (Medline Plus) 

Drugs of Abuse, A DEA Resource Guide 2020 Edition 

Get the Facts Educational Cards 

How to Talk About Marijuana 

Marijuana Anonymous 

Marijuana Anonymous Online 

Marijuana Facts for Teens 

Marijuana Facts parents need to know 

Marijuana – Is it safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding? 

Marijuana Risks: Build a Brain 

Marijuana Risks: Virtual Assistant 

Mind Matters: How Does Marijuana Affect Your Brain and Body 

National Institute on Drug Abuse – Marijuana 

Prevention of Youth Marijuana Use 

Talking with Your Child About Marijuana (PDF)  

Tips for Teens – Marijuana (PDF) 

Sources:
http://teens.drugabuse.gov/facts/facts_mj1.php
www.nida.nih.gov/infofacts/marijuana.html