Finding Help
Addiction & Substance Abuse
A WORD ABOUT MARIJUANA
What's the #1 drug of choice amongst Marin County middle and high school students? Marijuana! Many
teenagers believe that marijuana is safer than alcohol or other drugs. When talking about marijuana with
your child, it is helpful to know the myths and the facts. For example, teenagers may say, "it is harmless
because it is natural," "it is not addictive," or "it does not affect my thinking or my grades."
However, research shows that marijuana can cause serious problems with learning, feelings, and health.
Short-term use of marijuana can lead to:
- School difficulties
- Problems with memory and concentration
- Increased aggression
- Car accidents
- Use of other drugs or alcohol
- Risky sexual behaviors
- Worsening of underlying mental health conditions including mood changes and suicidal thinking
- Increased risk of psychosis
- Interference with prescribed medication
Regular use of marijuana can lead to:
Significant problems including Cannabis Use Disorder. Signs that your child has developed Cannabis Use
Disorder include using marijuana more often than intended, having cravings, or when using interferes with
other activities. If someone with Cannabis Use Disorder stops using suddenly, they may suffer from
withdrawal symptoms that, while not dangerous, can cause irritability, anxiety, and changes in mood,
sleep, and appetite.
Long-term use of marijuana can lead to:
- Cannabis Use Disorder (Learn more about Cannabis Use Disorder here)
- The same breathing problems as smoking cigarettes (coughing, wheezing, trouble with physical activity, and lung cancer)
- Decreased motivation or interest which can lead to decline in academic or occupational performance
- Lower intelligence
- Mental health problems, such as schizophrenia, depression, anxiety, anger, irritability, moodiness, and risk of suicide