Marijuana, also known as cannabis, is becoming increasingly popular among teens. The drug is easily accessible, and its use is seen by many as a way to escape from stress and pressure. However, while marijuana use may seem harmless, there are serious risks associated with it.
If marijuana abuse has seemingly taken over your teen’s life, it is time to intervene. Venture Academy offers teen treatment programs for drug and alcohol abuse in Canada that can get your child back on the right track toward a happy and healthy life. Call 866.762.2211 to learn more.
Why Is Marijuana Popular Among Teens?
Marijuana is becoming increasingly popular among teens due to its ability to provide a feeling of relaxation and euphoria. Many teens view marijuana as a safe and natural way to escape from everyday stressors or difficult emotions or just to have fun with friends. The accessibility of marijuana also makes it attractive to teens since it can be easily acquired on the black market or through friends who are over 18. Although marijuana is often viewed as harmless by teens, research has shown that long-term use of the drug can lead to a variety of negative health consequences, including decreased cognitive function and increased risks for various mental disorders.
It’s important for parents and teachers to educate young people about the dangers associated with using marijuana so they can make informed decisions about their own health. The best way to discourage teen marijuana use is to discuss the potential risks and encourage healthy lifestyle choices instead.
Signs of Teen Marijuana Abuse
Knowing the signs of marijuana abuse is key to recognising when your teen needs help. Some warning signs of teen marijuana abuse include:
- Increase in secretive behaviour
- Red eyes or dilated pupils
- Sudden changes in friends or social groups
- Possessing paraphernalia like pipes or rolling papers
- New or worsening depression or anxiety
- Increase in appetite
- Dry mouth
- Slowed reaction time
- Impaired balance and coordination
- Mood swings
- Changes to sleep patterns
- Increased irritability or agitation
- Loss of interest in activities
- Isolation or social withdrawal
If your teen is abusing marijuana, it is important to remember that resources are available to help them. Seeking professional help from a therapist or counsellor is a great first step in addressing the issue. A professional can help your teen to gain insight into why marijuana use has become an issue and can provide them with tools to help them cope with any underlying issues that may be driving the abuse. It is also important to talk openly and honestly with your teen. The more open and understanding you are, the more likely they are to be receptive to getting help and making positive changes in their life.
When Is it Time to Get My Teen Help for Marijuana Abuse?
When should parents get help for their teen if they think marijuana use has become a problem? Knowing when it’s time to intervene and seek professional help can be difficult. However, some signs may indicate that your teen requires assistance with marijuana abuse:
- Increased use and abuse – If your teen’s use of marijuana is increasing in frequency or intensity, it could be an indication that they may have developed a substance abuse issue.
- Changes in performance – If you notice your teen is having difficulty maintaining good grades or appears to be less motivated than usual, this could be due to the effects of marijuana on their learning and motivation levels.
- Loss of interest – If you see your teen losing interest in activities or hobbies that they used to enjoy, this could indicate that marijuana has taken over their life.
- Withdrawing from family – If your teen is withdrawing from conversations and spending more time away from the family home, it may be a sign of substance abuse.
- Denial – If your teen adamantly denies that they are using marijuana or brushes off questions about its use, this could be an indication of a problem with substance abuse.
If you notice any of these signs in your teen’s behaviour, it may be time to seek help for them through counselling or other intervention methods. It is important to address potential problems early on so they can get the professional help and support they need to break free from the effects of marijuana abuse.
Treatment can come in many forms, such as individual therapy, family counselling, and support groups. It can also involve the use of medications to help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms, as well as cognitive-behavioural therapy to help teens identify and change maladaptive behaviours related to their marijuana use. With the right treatment, teens can learn healthier coping skills and develop strategies for managing their marijuana cravings and avoiding relapse. In addition, treatment can provide teens with the support they need to stay on track and make positive changes in their lives. With the right help, teens can successfully overcome marijuana abuse and get back on track to achieving their personal goals.
Find Help for Teen Marijuana Abuse at Venture Academy
Venture Academy understands the importance of providing teens with the necessary support and help to overcome their marijuana abuse. We believe that no teen should have to suffer from drug abuse alone. That is why we are dedicated to offering treatment options designed specifically for teens struggling with marijuana abuse. Call us at 866.762.2211 or fill out our online contact form to learn more about our programs and how we can help.
