Teen Pot Use

The human brain is still developing throughout the teen years and into a person's 20s. That's why the Office of Drug Control Policy says using marijuana at the age of 12 can lead to addiction, respiratory illness, weakened motor skills and cognitive impairment not only while the child smokes but for years after a person quits. 

Kids aren’t getting the message, though. Kids and teens are smoking marijuana at younger ages, according to data collected by the National Survey on Drug Use and Health. From 2008 to 2009, there was a 9 percent increase - to 7.3 percent of people age 12 or older - who currently use marijuana. During the same time period, the average age of first-time marijuana users decreased to 17 years old.  

Why is Early Marijuana Use Dangerous?

Gil Kerlikowske, director of National Drug Policy, says parents need to know why marijuana use early in a child's life can be dangerous. "We recognize American families are facing many challenges today, but failing to adequately prevent young people from using drugs now can lead to a lifetime of devastating consequences," Kerlikowske said, via a press release announcing the data. 

Kerlikowske said parents need to know the risk factors associated with marijuana use, be able to talk with their children about drug use, and regularly clean out their medicine cabinets so old, unused medicines are thrown away and not abused. 

Teen Drug Rehab

If you or someone you love is in need of teen drug rehab, call The Canyon at our toll-free number. Someone is there to take your call 24 hours a day and answer any questions you have about treatment, financing or insurance.