Although it remains illegal across much of the United States, many teens mistakenly regard marijuana as a harmless substance. As a parent, it’s only natural that you want the best for your children. Part of this parental protection may include speaking to your teens about drugs and the lasting issues they can cause. Arming yourself with the facts about teen substance abuse and marijuana side effects can keep the lines of communication open. Venture Academy provides drug and alcohol treatment to teens in Canada. Contact us at 866.762.2211 to learn how we can help you.
Talking to Your Teens About Substance Abuse
Some states are now making marijuana legal for recreational use as well as medicinal benefits, which can send a confusing message to teens. For example, unlike marijuana, most teens are fully aware of tobacco’s dangers. In fact, today’s teenagers are more likely to begin using marijuana than they are to smoke tobacco.
If you consider the mixed messages teens receive about marijuana’s safety, it’s no surprise that teen marijuana use has increased. As a parent, you play a vital role in educating your teen about potentially dangerous marijuana side effects.
Signs and Symptoms of Marijuana Use
Knowing what to look for is essential to recognising marijuana use in teens. Some of the common signs and symptoms of marijuana use are:
- Watery, bloodshot eyes
- Chronic dry mouth
- A relaxed, sleepy, or “high” state
- Issues with memory, coordination, and reaction time
- Impaired judgment
- Having paraphernalia in their room or car
- Anxiety or paranoia
- Moodiness
- Increased appetite or snacking
- Weight gain
- Lack of motivation
While moodiness, over-eating, and lack of motivation can just be symptoms of the standard teenage experience, you’ll see when it’s become problematic, and you’ll know that it’s time to intervene, especially with the presence of any of those other symptoms.
Negative Marijuana Side Effects
While addictive substances like marijuana impact all teens differently, there are a few common marijuana side effects. Consider the following possible side effects and their long-term impact.
Memory Loss
Although so many young people consider marijuana to be harmless, it can cause chemical changes in the brain that lead to both short and long-term memory loss.
Loss of Coordination
If your teens are interested in sports or other athletic activities, they may find it notable that marijuana use can lead to a severe loss of coordination.
Lung Disease
When marijuana comes into contact with the lungs through smoking, it can create damage and inflammation within this vital organ.
Anxiety and Depression
Teens and adults who use marijuana are much more likely to suffer from severe anxiety and lingering depression.
While this list of possible marijuana side effects isn’t extensive, it provides a starting point for showing your teens that this substance can cause lasting damage.
Get Educated About Teen Marijuana Abuse and More at Venture Academy
Venture Academy is a quality residential behaviour treatment centre. With several convenient locations throughout Canada, our professionals specialise in treating damaging teen behaviours. In addition to substance abuse counselling, we offer a number of troubled teen programs to help youth overcome various behavioural and mental health challenges.
Whether the troubling behaviour relates to drug abuse, self-destructive actions, or other common teen problems, Venture Academy can restore balance to your family with an innovative approach to treatment and education. Call us right away at 866.762.2211 to find out how we can help your family to heal and experience happiness again, or fill out our online contact form and let us get back to you.
