Marijuana Abuse Can Be Prevented With Parental Help

Marijuana is the most widely abused illegal drug used by children between the ages of 12 and 17, a report from the Office of National Drug Control Policy states.

Emergency department episodes involving marijuana almost tripled from 1994 to 2002. Marijuana use steadily increased over that decade, surpassing heroin — which remained relatively flat — in 1998.

What can parents do to prevent their children from trying marijuana?

“A lot,” comments Mary Rieser, Executive Director for Narconon Drug Rehab Georgia. “The problem is that most parents ignore the peril, or are unaware of the risks associated with early use of marijuana.

“For instance, marijuana use is associated with depression, suicidal thoughts, and suicide attempts. Besides the links to depression shown below, teens who smoke marijuana at least once a month are three times more likely to have suicidal thoughts than non-users.

“Drug addiction often starts with marijuana abuse at a young age, and according to NSDUH, one in four 12– to 17-year-olds who report using marijuana in the past year display the characteristics of abuse or dependency. For younger users, the risk of marijuana abuse or dependency exceeds that for alcohol or tobacco. Recent research supports the “gateway” dimension of marijuana — that its use creates greater risk of abuse or dependency on other drugs, such as heroin and cocaine. Marijuana use itself is a serious risk, not only for addiction, but also is an added risk for developing psychosis, including schizophrenia.

“Did you know that approximately 2 million new users began using marijuana in the past year? Most of them children.

“Marijuana initiation occurs at a younger age than for most drugs of abuse, in many cases in pre-teens.

“Early initiation of marijuana use is associated with drug dependence as an adult: the younger the age at first use, the higher the likelihood of adult drug dependence.

“What can parents do? First, they can educate their children. Express strong disapproval of marijuana use. Be aware of your child’s behavior: dropping grades, school absences, lack of communication, mood swings all indicate drug use.

“Don’t be a parent who smells funny smells, finds un-identified pills in the laundry,  doesn’t keep track of their child’s whereabouts, only to realize that their child has become a drug-addict.

“Studies have shown that families who dine together five times a week have 5 times less chance of their children using marijuana.

“Talk to your children.”

For more information on drug addiction rehab, marijuana abuse, or drug education, call Narconon of Georgia at 1-877-413-3073.

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