Adverse effect of cannabis use in individuals under 18

Cannabis use in individuals under 18 can have several adverse effects, particularly because the brain is still developing during adolescence. Here are some of the key risks associated with cannabis use in this age group:

1. Cognitive and Memory Impairment

  • Long-term cognitive effects: Cannabis use can interfere with memory, learning, and concentration. Adolescents may experience deficits in attention, problem-solving, and the ability to retain information.
  • Impact on IQ: Some studies have shown that frequent cannabis use in adolescence can lead to a decline in IQ over time, especially if use begins at an earlier age and continues regularly.

2. Mental Health Risks

  • Increased risk of mental health disorders: Early cannabis use has been linked to a higher risk of developing anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders. It may also exacerbate pre-existing mental health conditions.
  • Psychosis: There is evidence suggesting that cannabis use during adolescence may increase the risk of psychosis or trigger the onset of schizophrenia in vulnerable individuals, especially those with a family history of mental illness.
  • Cannabis use disorder: Adolescents are at higher risk of developing cannabis use disorder, which can lead to dependence and withdrawal symptoms.

3. Impaired Academic and Social Functioning

  • Lower academic performance: Cannabis use can lead to poorer academic performance due to impaired cognitive function and decreased motivation (sometimes referred to as “amotivational syndrome”).
  • Social issues: Adolescents who use cannabis may have difficulties with social interactions, which can lead to isolation or problems with peer relationships.

4. Effects on Brain Development

  • Disruption of brain maturation: The adolescent brain is still developing, and cannabis use during this period may disrupt normal brain development, particularly in areas related to decision-making, impulse control, and emotional regulation.
  • Altered brain structure and function: Some research suggests that frequent cannabis use in adolescence may alter the structure and connectivity of key brain regions involved in cognitive and emotional processing.

 

5. Risk of Substance Abuse

  • Adolescents who begin using cannabis are at greater risk of using other substances, such as alcohol, tobacco, or other illicit drugs, which can further increase the likelihood of substance use disorders.

6. Impaired Motor Skills and Coordination

  • Short-term effects: Cannabis can impair motor coordination, reaction time, and judgment, which increases the risk of accidents, injuries, or risky behaviors like driving under the influence.

7. Physical Health Risks

  • Respiratory issues: Smoking cannabis can lead to respiratory issues, such as chronic bronchitis or other lung conditions, especially if the individual uses cannabis frequently or smokes it.
  • Impact on hormones and physical development: There is some evidence that cannabis use during adolescence may affect hormonal balance, which could influence puberty and growth patterns.

8. Academic and Career Outcomes

  • Adolescents who use cannabis regularly may have a higher risk of dropping out of school and struggling to achieve career goals, which can affect long-term life outcomes, including income potential and overall quality of life.

9. Increased Risk of Accidental Overdose or Poisoning

  • Cannabis products, especially edibles or concentrates, can vary in potency, and adolescents may be at higher risk of unintentional overdose due to misjudging dosage. Overconsumption can lead to anxiety, paranoia, hallucinations, or physical symptoms such as nausea and vomiting.

10. Altered Reward System

  • Regular cannabis use can alter the brain’s reward system, which could affect motivation and lead to a higher likelihood of engaging in risky behaviors to seek out the pleasurable effects of the drug.

Conclusion

Given the potential for long-term consequences, the use of cannabis by individuals under 18 is generally discouraged by health professionals. The adolescent brain is particularly vulnerable to the negative effects of substances like cannabis, which can affect cognitive development, mental health, and overall well-being. If a young person is already using cannabis, early intervention and support are crucial to mitigate these risks and prevent further harm.