Raising a teenager can be complex. With social media, peer pressure and increasing outside influences, it can be difficult for parents to keep up with everything going on in their teen’s life.
You may be aware of marijuana and its dangers. But how informed are you about the laws, its effects on the developing brains of a teenager, and what you can do to help guide them on the right path?
Understanding the laws, science and risks can give you the tools and confidence to help protect your teen during one of the most important stages of brain development.
Marijuana is illegal for teens. EVERYWHERE.
Each state has its own laws for marijuana use. In Utah, recreational use of marijuana is not allowed. Here, you can only use cannabis in limited ways, and as part of a prescribed medical treatment. Without a state-issued medical cannabis card, Utah residents are not allowed to engage in any marijuana or cannabis use.
That includes all types of marijuana consumption, from smoking the dried plants in a rolled cigarette, through a bong, vaping in an e-cigarette, ingesting edibles and infused beverages, or using oils as topical skin treatments.
But even in states where recreational marijuana is legal, there is one universal law. It is never legal for teens to use marijuana recreationally.
And there’s a major reason why.
Teenage Brains are Still Developing
A brain isn’t fully developed until about 25 years old. A teenager’s brain is still learning several key cognitive functions, including judgment, impulse control and memory. Marijuana use could impact concentration, reaction time, motivation and overall learning.
For young drivers, it’s a dangerous distraction that slows coordination and impairs judgment. Furthermore, it’s illegal to drive under the influence of marijuana and could lead to a loss of driving privileges.
A teen’s mental and emotional wellness also can be affected by cannabis consumption. Research has linked teen marijuana use with increased anxiety, depression and difficulty managing stress.
Teens who use marijuana are less likely to graduate from high school or earn a college degree than those who don’t. They’re also at a higher risk of developing cannabis use disorder, a condition where a person is unable to stop using it, regardless of any mental or physical health problems related to consuming it.
Anyone who smokes or vapes the drug can cause irreversible damage to their lungs. Marijuana smoke has many of the same toxins and cancer-causing chemicals contained in tobacco smoke.
Exaggerating dangers can cause loss of trust in the message. It’s important to be straightforward and honest without just using scare tactics.
Point out the positives. Emphasize your teen’s future goals and why avoiding marijuana will help them reach those aspirations.
Find more helpful discussion tips here, as well as additional local resources that are available to provide guidance and advice near you.
You CAN Make a Difference
Today’s conversations with your teenager can help shape tomorrow’s healthy choices. Your child is more likely to listen and succeed when they feel heard and supported.
By staying informed, listening openly and talking honestly about the risks of marijuana use, you can help your child make smart decisions that will protect their mental and physical health and lead them to a more prosperous future.
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