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As THC levels in marijuana soar, the incidence of addiction and psychosis in teenagers is also increasing. The widespread use of highly potent cannabis products is leading to significant physical and mental health issues in young users.
For many adults who experimented with cannabis in their teenage years, the thought of their own children trying it might not raise alarms. After all, some may recall light-hearted experiences like bingeing on snacks while watching movies. However, today’s cannabis is not the same as the mild strains from decades past, which had THC levels around 4%. Nowadays, teens are consuming products with THC concentrations that can reach up to 95%.
With the rise in potency, the risks associated with cannabis use have escalated dramatically. Rather than just experiencing the munchies, teens are facing serious consequences, including addiction and psychosis. For instance, a young user named Mia, who began vaping THC at 15, reported an initial feeling of overwhelming euphoria that quickly turned into anxiety and fainting episodes. Despite believing that cannabis was safe because it was “natural,” she learned the hard way about its dangers. Research indicates a strong link between regular cannabis use and the onset of psychosis, which can manifest as hallucinations and a detachment from reality. This risk is particularly pronounced among adolescents who frequently use high-potency cannabis.
A study published in JAMA Psychiatry revealed that the percentage of schizophrenia cases in Denmark linked to cannabis use rose from 2% in 1995 to 6-8% by 2010, paralleling the increase in cannabis strength. Furthermore, another study from The Lancet Psychiatry found that individuals who regularly used high-potency cannabis were five times more likely to develop a psychotic disorder than those who had never used it. The risks appear to be even higher for younger users.
In addition to mental health issues, adolescents using cannabis regularly may develop physical ailments that can linger even after they stop using. Mia was diagnosed with cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS), characterized by severe vomiting episodes. During one episode, she recounted being sick over 20 times in just two hours. Other health concerns associated with high-potency cannabis, especially from vaping, include respiratory issues linked to harmful additives in the oils.
There is also a growing concern regarding addiction. High-potency THC products often lack the therapeutic benefits of CBD, a compound that can mitigate some negative effects of THC. This absence may contribute to a higher likelihood of dependence, reflected in the increasing number of teens seeking help for THC addiction.
Despite the known risks, many teens will still experiment with cannabis. Therefore, it’s crucial for parents and caregivers to engage in open discussions with their teens about safe usage, moderation, and recognizing the signs of potential abuse. For additional insights on navigating these conversations, check out this additional resource.
Summary:
The increasing strength of cannabis is linked to a rise in addiction and psychosis among teens. Research shows a direct correlation between high-potency cannabis use and mental health disorders, particularly in younger users. Physical health issues, including cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome, are also a concern. Engaging in conversations about cannabis use is essential for parents and caregivers.