The teen years are a time of growth, exploration, and taking chances. While some risks, like running for student council or asking someone out, can help shape your identity and foster independence, others can be harmful. Using cannabis is one of those risks that can negatively impact your health and well-being. Did you know that in 2022, nearly a third (30.7%) of high school seniors in the US reported using cannabis in the past year? Even more concerning, 6.3% used it daily in the past month. Although past-year cannabis vaping among teens saw a decline from 2020 to 2021 and remained steady in 2022, it’s still prevalent. In 2022, 6% of eighth graders, 15% of tenth graders, and 21% of seniors reported vaping cannabis in the past year. It’s important to be aware of these statistics and understand the risks involved. Take a moment to learn more about how cannabis can affect your health and make informed decisions for your future.
The CDC has compiled a list of the negative effects of teen cannabis use, have a look.
Negative effects include:
- Difficulty thinking and problem-solving
- Problems with memory and learning
- Reduced coordination
- Difficulty maintaining attention
What teens can do
- Learn the facts about cannabis use so that you can make informed decisions.
- Share information that you learn with friends, parents/guardians, teachers, and others.
- Choose not to drive if you are planning to use, are using, or have used cannabis.
Using cannabis can increase the risk of mental health issues, such as depression and social anxiety, and it is linked to temporary psychosis and long-term disorders like schizophrenia, especially for those who start young and use frequently. It also impairs driving abilities, affecting reaction time, coordination, and concentration, making it both dangerous and illegal to drive under its influence. Additionally, about 3 in 10 people who use cannabis develop a cannabis use disorder, struggling to quit and often sacrificing important activities with friends and family. It’s crucial to be aware of these risks and make informed decisions about cannabis use.
