Marijuana

As a parent, it can be difficult to know how to navigate conversations about substance use with your teen. With the growing acceptance and availability of marijuana, it's more important than ever to stay informed. This page is designed to help you understand how marijuana use may affect teens, recognize the signs of use, and know how it's commonly consumed.

What’s in Marijuana? Understanding Its Main Components

Marijuana comes from the cannabis plant and contains over 100 chemical compounds known as cannabinoids, but a few stand out due to their effects—especially on teens.

1. THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol):
   This is the main psychoactive component in marijuana—the part that causes the "high." THC affects areas of the brain responsible for memory, thinking, concentration, and coordination. Today’s marijuana is often much more potent than it was in past decades, increasing the risk of adverse effects.
2. CBD (Cannabidiol):
   CBD is another well-known cannabinoid that does not cause a high. It’s often promoted for its potential calming or therapeutic effects. While CBD itself is not intoxicating, many products that claim to be “CBD” may still contain THC or other substances, especially when unregulated.
3. Other Cannabinoids:
   Compounds like CBN (Cannabinol) and CBG (Cannabigerol) are being researched for their potential health effects. While less well-known, they are part of the complex makeup of marijuana products.
4. Additives and Contaminants:
   Some marijuana products, especially vapes or black-market edibles and concentrates, may include flavorings, cutting agents, or pesticides, which can be harmful when inhaled or ingested.

Common Ways Marijuana Is Used

Teens today have access to a wide range of marijuana products, some of which are discreet and easy to hide. Knowing what to look for can help you stay ahead.

Smoking:

• Rolled joints, pipes, or blunts
• Vaporizers or vape pens (often odorless or lightly scented)

Edibles:

• Gummies, brownies, cookies, or candies infused with THC
• Effects may be delayed and longer-lasting

Dabbing:

• Using concentrated marijuana extracts (like wax or shatter)
• High potency and risk of side effects

Topicals and Tinctures:

• Less common among teens, but sometimes used as oils or drops

Statistics

• Around 30% of users could experience some level of problematic use, potentially resulting in dependence and addiction.
• Individuals who start using marijuana before the age of 18 are 4-7x more likely to develop problematic use compared to adults.
• Marijuana used to contain around 2-5% THC. Today, many products average 15-30% THC, with some concentrates reaching 90% or higher.
• On average, DuPage County Teens who have reported trying marijuana have started at age 15.
• DuPage County teens most commonly obtain marijuana from someone they know  (friend, sibling, parent, other adult).

Health Effects of Marijuana Use in Teens

While marijuana may be perceived as harmless by some, since it is now illegal to use by adults age 21 and older in Illinois, its effects on the developing teenage brain are serious. Research shows regular marijuana use during adolescence can lead to:

• Impaired memory and learning: THC can disrupt the brain’s ability to process and retain information.
• Reduced academic performance: Cognitive challenges and lack of motivation may contribute to lower grades and school drop-out.
• Increased risk of mental health issues: Anxiety, depression, and even psychosis have been linked to early marijuana use.
• Addiction: Contrary to popular belief, marijuana can be addictive. About 1 in 6 teens who start using will develop a marijuana use disorder.
• Poor judgment and risky behavior: Impaired decision-making can lead to accidents, injuries, or unsafe sexual activity.

Signs and Symptoms of Teen Marijuana Use

Teens who are using marijuana may show a variety of physical, behavioral, and emotional changes. While these signs don’t always mean your teen is using drugs, they can be red flags that warrant a deeper conversation.

Physical Signs:

• Bloodshot eyes
• Dry mouth
• Increased appetite, especially for snacks (the “munchies”)
• Slowed reaction time or impaired coordination
• Unusual smells on clothes or in the bedroom
• Use of incense, air fresheners, or breath mints to mask odors

Behavioral Changes:

• Sudden changes in friends or social circles
• Declining academic performance or loss of interest in school
• Secretive behavior or lying
• Withdrawing from family activities
• Skipping classes or increased absences

Emotional or Mental Health Symptoms:

• Mood swings or increased irritability
• Lack of motivation or interest in previously enjoyed activities
• Anxiety, paranoia, or signs of depression

What Parents Can Do

• Talk early and often. Keep communication open and honest. Teens are more likely to listen when they feel heard and respected.
• Set clear expectations. Let your teen know where you stand on substance use and explain your reasons.
• Stay involved. Know your teen’s friends, monitor changes in behavior, and create a safe environment for them to talk.
• Educate yourself. The more you know about marijuana and its effects, the more confident you'll be in guiding your teen.
• Seek support. If you're concerned your teen may be using marijuana, consider talking to a school counselor, healthcare provider, or substance use specialist.