Nearly 30% of U.S. high school seniors have used pot in the past year, with 17% of those using before age 18 becoming addicted, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.
The Berrien County Health Department and Voice. Change. Hope. Alliance are collaborating to educate the community about the negative effects of underage marijuana usage while providing resources for parents and caregivers.
“Though legal for individuals over the age of 21 in Michigan, marijuana poses concerning health effects for teens,” said Lisa Peeples-Hurst, BCHD public health promotion and prevention supervisor. “From potential IQ loss to negative mental health effects, marijuana’s effects in those under 18 should not be ignored or taken lightly. That’s why the Health Department is investing in resources and tools to help parents and caregivers initiate these important conversations with their teens.”
According to SAMHSA, today’s marijuana contains three times the THC compared to 25 years ago, which has a stronger effect on the brain. There are known links between marijuana use and IQ loss, depression, anxiety, suicide planning and psychotic episodes for long-term users.
Marijuana can be more damaging for teens because their brains are still developing. According to C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital, marijuana’s negative effects can show up in poor school performance, increased absences and a greater likelihood of dropping out and involvement in the legal system.
Parents and caregivers can help limit risk for young people in their life by talking to them about marijuana and other substances. SAMHSA has resources available to help get the conversation started.
For more information about this campaign and available resources, visit berriencounty.org/1580/Get-the-Dirt-on-Weed.
