Understanding Marijuana’s Impact: Protecting Young Minds and Keeping Loved Ones Safe

As marijuana use becomes more common, it’s important to understand how it can affect teens and the dangers it poses to children and pets. 

How Marijuana Affects Teens

Teenagers’ brains are growing quickly, especially in areas that control decision-making, memory, and problem-solving. Using marijuana during this time can cause problems such as:

• Memory and Learning Issues: Marijuana can make it harder for teens to think, remember things, and solve problems. It may also affect parts of the brain that control reasoning and judgment.

• Lower Grades: Teens who use marijuana often may have trouble keeping up in school. According to the CDC, they are more likely to drop out of high school or not go to college.

• Mental Health Problems: Studies show using marijuana as a teen can increase the chance of anxiety, depression, or even more serious mental health issues like psychosis or schizophrenia.

• Addiction: Marijuana can be addictive. Studies show that about 3 in 10 people who use marijuana develop cannabis use disorder, which means they can’t stop even if it causes problems. This risk is higher for teens.

  

What You Can Do to Protect Teens

1. Start the Conversation: Talk openly with teens about marijuana. Share how it can harm their brain, memory, and grades. Use age-appropriate facts, such as:

   • It can make learning and problem-solving harder.

   • It’s linked to mental health issues like anxiety or depression.

   • It can be addictive, especially for young users.

2. Encourage Healthy Choices: Promote activities that support mental health and self-confidence, such as sports, hobbies, or volunteering.

3. Monitor Behavior: Be aware of changes in mood, school performance, or social activities that might signal substance use.

4. Set Clear Expectations: Establish family rules about marijuana use and explain why they’re important.

Safety First: Secure and Dispose of Substances Responsibly

Keeping children and pets safe starts with proper storage and disposal of substances like marijuana and prescription pills. Secure these items to prevent accidental ingestion and misuse. BCA offers free lockboxes to help families store substances safely. Request yours at BooneCountyAlliance.org/contact.

Safe Storage Tips

• Keep substances out of reach and sight.

• Use childproof packaging.

• Store substances separately from everyday items.

• Educate household members on safe practices.

Request a FREE lockbox. Available for Boone County residents while supplies last.

Proper Disposal Guidelines

• Follow local regulations for substance disposal.

• Destroy unused products to prevent misuse.

• Return unused medications to designated drop-off locations.

• Avoid flushing substances or disposing of them in landfills.
  

In Case of Accidental Ingestion

If you suspect a child or pet has ingested a harmful substance, watch for signs such as altered mental status, impaired coordination, or gastrointestinal distress. Seek immediate medical attention and call Poison Control at 800-222-1222 for guidance.

Resources for Support

Our website is filled with helpful resources to guide conversations and recognize signs of addiction. Go to www.boonecountyalliance.org/cannabis for more information. 

By understanding the facts and taking proactive steps, we can protect our pets, safeguard our children, and help create a healthier, safer Boone County.