Cannabis & Teens

The teen brain is actively developing and continues to develop until around age 25. Cannabis use during adolescence and young adulthood may harm the developing brain.

Negative effects of teen cannabis use include:

  • Difficulty thinking and problem-solving
  • Problems with memory and learning
  • Reduced coordination
  • Difficulty maintaining attention
  • Problems with school and social life

Do you keep cannabis in your home?

Read our guide to Cannabis Safety in the Home.

Legal Cannabis in Missouri

Since cannabis use became legal in Missouri State for those with a medical card or who are over the age of 21, you may have heard different opinions about whether it is safe to use. You may not be sure what Missouri’s laws are, or how cannabis use can affect young people.

When it comes to protecting your child’s health, it’s important to remember your power as a parent. Knowing the facts and using proven prevention strategies can help your child avoid using cannabis, alcohol, other drugs, and other risky behaviors.

Read: Legal Cannabis: What Parents Need to Know

PRINTABLE: CANNABIS INFOSHEETS

TRUTH VS. PERCEPTION: MYTHBUSTERS

PERCEPTION: STUDENT USE OF MARIJUANA IN CLAYTON IS NORMAL

“Everyone’s doing it” is the time-worn excuse for teen experimentation with substances, including the many forms of marijuana now available legally in our area.

THE TRUTH: NOT USING IS NORMAL

More than half of CHS students and three fourths of Wydown students believe that using Marijuana once or twice a week is RISKY. The majority of Clayton students say they had NOT used any form of Marijuana in the past 30 days. Students can find many like-minded classmates who find other ways to relax and socialize.

PERCEPTION: EDIBLES AND VAPED THC ARE SAFER

During these stressful times, it may be tempting to turn to substances to try to manage the feeling of being overwhelmed. And with legalization of Marijuana in the news, it may seem like smoking it is less taboo, and vaping it or nibbling on edibles may seem “safer” options to use.

THE TRUTH: NOT SAFE!

The popularity of edibles increases the chance of harmful reactions. Edibles take longer to digest and produce a high. People may consume more to feel the effects faster, with dangerous results. Higher THC levels may mean a greater risk for addiction for people regularly exposing themselves to high doses. THC in any form can create difficulty in problem-solving, impaired memory and hallucinations in high doses. There can be lasting impact on the developing brain.

Marijuana in any form is not a healthy way for a teen to manage stress.