Donate
CLIENT PORTAL
Menu
Back

Cannabis legalization: FAQ about the impacts on teens of easier access and higher potency  

By Jennifer Fukuda • Addiction & Recovery Services Program Coordinator, and Leah Persky, PhD & CFLE • Professional and Community Education Program Manager 

Minnesota is one of 24 states where individuals who are over the age of 21 can legally access cannabis products for recreational use. Cannabis use is increasing year to year. Results from a study tracking cannabis trends found the rate of use in 2013 was 7.59% of the population; in 2022, the rate rose to 15.11% (Mattingly et al., 2024).  

As usage is normalized and barriers to access are reduced, we see significant changes in usage patterns for teens and young adults. Many parents and adults have questions about what this means for kids they care about. In this article, we address some of the common questions and answers, including: 

  • What is the impact of cannabis use on teens? 
  • Why are adolescents using these products? 
  • Is cannabis use among teens dangerous? 
  • Cannabis poisoning: What should I do if I suspect cannabis poisoning and/or overdose? 
  • Is addiction to cannabis real? 
  • What can parents and caregivers do? 
 

What is the impact of cannabis use on teens?  

Unfortunately, cannabis (also known as marijuana, and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)) is widely used (illegally) among individuals under the age of 21. According to a survey of middle and high school students in 2022, 20.7% of 12th graders reported using marijuana in the past year, and 6.3% said they use it daily (Geoffrion, 2024).  

While cannabis consumption has historically been favored by boys, a study in 2023 showed cannabis use by girls becoming more equal to that of boys (González-Cano-Caballero, et al, 2023). Common items such as vape cartridges, concentrates, and edibles often contain THC levels several times higher than traditional cannabis flower. This change makes THC use today much different than THC used in the past. You can look at this site for more information on different THC products available today. Brain development is not complete until 25-30; the impacts of THC on young people is quite different than on adults. There are edible and smokable products teens often use a vape for consuming THC. Here is more information about vaping from Hennepin County, including what it is and how to discuss it with your teen.  

Why are adolescents using these products? 

Social acceptance, changing culture around cannabis, and peer influences impact their increased risk of use. The perception of harm for marijuana is at its lowest point in 40 years (Harvard Medical School, 2016). For many teens, cannabis use is viewed as a coping mechanism and seen as an appropriate way to handle stress (González-Cano-Caballero, et al, 2023). Many teens view it as healthy because it comes from a natural source. However, the increased potency THC options available on the market today are anything but natural.   

Is cannabis use among teens dangerous?  

Research suggests adolescent brains are more sensitive to the chemicals in marijuana than adult brains (Geoffrion, 2024 & Shen, 2020). Adolescent brains are still developing and they are uniquely vulnerable to the effects of cannabis specifically. The frontal lobe is one of the last areas of the brain to develop and the active ingredients in THC actively target this part of the brain (Harvard Medical School, 2016). Research demonstrates that regular use of high potency THC in teens can lead to:  

• Cognitive impairment: Difficulties with memory, coordination, attention, problem-solving, academic performance, poor judgment, and a reduction in IQ (Geoffrion, 2024 & Shen, 2020) 

• Increased risk of mental health disorders: This includes anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, and psychosis (Geoffrion, 2024 & Shen, 2020)  

Know that each child and situation is different and these are potential impacts. 

Cannabis poisoning: What should I do if I suspect cannabis poisoning and/or overdose? 

Call poison control, a medical professional for people of any age, or veterinarian for accidental consumption by pets. With the legalization of cannabis and the increase in use of edibles that often look like candy and snack food, children and pets are increasingly accidently consuming edible cannabis.  

Research from Pediatrics journal demonstrated that from 2017-21 there was a 1375% increase in accidental poisoning from cannabis in children under 6 (Tweet et al, 2023). These concentrations of cannabis vary significantly and the effects are often delayed. Possible impacts include lethargy, vomiting, confusion, loss of balance, and in severe instances, difficulty breathing or seizures. Call 911 if you notice concerning symptoms. 

Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222 

Poison Control for Animals: 1-888-426-4435 

To prevent such accidents from happening, store all cannabis products in a locked medication box or bag that cannot be reached or opened by anyone other than you. For more information about preventing unintentional poisonings, review this information from Minnesota Department of Health. 

Is addiction to cannabis real? 

Cannabis Use Disorder (CUD) is a medical condition in which a person’s cannabis use becomes problematic, causing significant impairment or distress in daily life. It is defined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) as a pattern of cannabis use that includes symptoms such as using more cannabis or using it for longer than intended; cravings or strong urges to use; continued use despite negative personal, professional or health impacts; giving up important activities because of cannabis; increased tolerance and withdrawal symptoms when stopping. 

It is treatable, and early recognition is important—especially for adolescents who are at higher risk of developing dependence due to ongoing brain development. If you suspect a teen or young adult in your life is experiencing CUD, reach out for supportive services from a professional. Addiction and Recovery Services at JFCS provides coaching, consultation and referrals to direct services. 

What can parents and caregivers do? 

Legalization, increased availability, and stronger products have all contributed to a landscape in which young people may encounter cannabis more often—and in more potent forms than in the past. This environment heightens the importance of prevention and education efforts. 

Engaging in open and honest conversations is key to helping adolescents make positive decisions related to cannabis use. Research shows that families can influence the behavior of minors and whether or not they consume cannabis. Specifically, strong communication, supportive relationships, and parental supervision are linked to lower risk of use. (González-Cano-Caballero, et al., 2023).  

When parents ask questions and show a willingness to learn, they open the door by normalizing conversations about addiction and substance use education. If adults don’t talk about it, teens may be given the perception that it’s no big deal. If you need help figuring out how to start these conversations, or what information is important to share, reach out to the ARS team at JFCS. We will provide you with clear evidence-based information to support your family.  

If you are interested in learning more about how to talk to your loved ones about addiction, we encourage you to attend our upcoming event: Compassionate Concern: Talking to your Loved One About Addiction on Wednesday, Jan. 14, at 7 p.m. Pre-registration is required and low and no-cost attendance options are available. For more information and to register, click the above link. 

References: