Navigating the complex landscape of teenage behaviour and substance use is a daunting task for any parent or guardian. Recent cultural shifts and the legalisation of cannabis in various regions have brought the conversation to a head. With an upsurge in cannabis availability, the pressing concern of the drug’s impact on adolescent health is now at the forefront.
If cannabis use is taking over your teen’s life, know that help is available. Call 866.762.2211 or contact Venture Academy online for information about our drug and alcohol treatment for teens in Canada.
What Are the Effects of Cannabis?
Cannabis consumption produces a spectrum of short-term and long-term physiological, cognitive, and psychological responses in young people.
Short-Term Impact
The short-term effects of cannabis use can induce a range of immediate changes in a teenager’s body and mind. Within minutes of consumption, adolescents may experience:
- Altered sensory perception
- Distorted perception of time
- Mood shifts, which can range from heightened euphoria to increased anxiety
- Impaired motor coordination and memory
- Hallucinations and paranoia at higher doses
While these immediate repercussions may be brief, their presence in the formative years can disrupt crucial developmental milestones, potentially leading to long-term complications.
Long-Term Implications
Over an extended period, cannabis use in teens can lay a foundation for a multitude of risks. Some long-term effects on the horizon can include:
- Cognitive decline, notably in memory, attention, and IQ levels
- Increased likelihood of psychoses such as schizophrenia for those with a predisposition
- Diminished educational and career outcomes due to long-lasting cognitive deficits
- Impaired lung health, similar to tobacco, when smoked
By understanding the nuances of cannabis’s long-term impact, we’re better equipped to safeguard the future of the younger generation.
When to Get Your Teen Help for Cannabis Use
Cannabis use disorder affects a significant portion of young users, but when does experimentation cross into harmful territory? Recognizing the signs is pivotal. There comes a tipping point when the seemingly recreational use of cannabis transitions into dependency. Signs to watch out for include:
- Increased tolerance, needing more cannabis to achieve the same effects
- Withdrawal symptoms when not using
- Neglect of responsibilities and activities they once enjoyed
- Continued use despite knowing it leads to social, educational, or psychological problems
If your teen is exhibiting these signs, intervention is critical for their well-being and future prospects. When it’s evident that your teen’s cannabis use demands professional assistance, swift and appropriate intervention can make all the difference. Treatment and support for cannabis addiction in teens can include:
- Outpatient and inpatient rehabilitation programs
- Individual and family therapy to address underlying issues
- Support groups for the teen and their family to foster recovery and resilience
Seeking help is a proactive measure that can reroute their trajectory towards one of positivity and promise.
Find Help for Troubled Teens at Venture Academy — Contact Us Today
At Venture Academy, we understand that the unique needs of each teen require a custom approach to healing and recovery. Our program structure is designed to provide a supportive environment where adolescents can confront their challenges and build the skills necessary for a fulfilling life. If your teen’s cannabis use has become a cause for concern, delay is not an option. Call 866.762.2211 or contact Venture Academy online today to begin the conversation about a path to recovery.
