Marijuana Abuse Up Among Teens: Legalization Quest Sparking Rise?
There are two facts to consider. On one hand, in different spots around the country, people are pushing to legalize marijuana. On the other hand, a recent study showed that teenage marijuana use is up after years on the decline. Is there a relationship between these two truths? Are more and more teenagers using marijuana because of what they perceive as a lackadaisical attitude toward the dangers of marijuana and marijuana addiction? Or is there something else contributing to the epidemic of teen marijuana addiction?
Legal Marijuana and Teen Marijuana Addiction
The idea is that, because “legalize it” proponents believe that marijuana is safe enough to be used and sold just like alcohol -many even say that it is less dangerous than alcohol -kids are getting the idea that it’s harmless. The concept that medicinal marijuana may be appropriate for recreational use -as if any medicinal drug is appropriate for recreational use -is a disturbing leap to make from the “legalize marijuana” movement. It is possible, though, that kids are making it and that the concept may be part of what is driving up use of the drug among teens. It’s doubtful, however, that this is all that’s behind the rise in teen marijuana abuse.
Other Contributions to Teen Marijuana Addiction Increase
It could be that the general attitude toward marijuana is one that is less than fearful. Police officers, parents, teachers, community members -many of them view marijuana as “not that bad,” especially when compared to heroin or cocaine. They may let teens caught on a first or second offense off with a warning rather than letting them know just how harmful it can be. Considered a gateway drug, many believe that marijuana abuse isn’t serious for teens until it leads to something worse. Others believe that experimenting with marijuana is a normal behavior for teens. That couldn’t be more wrong.
Teen Marijuana Addiction and Teen Marijuana Rehab
Abuse of any drug -marijuana, alcohol, over the counter medications -by a teenager is a precursor for drug addiction later in life. A huge percentage of adult addicts and alcoholics recount their drug histories and start with stories of early abuse of marijuana during their teen years. Yes, it is possible that your teen will simply grow out of using the drug and move forward. It’s just as possible, though, that they will smoke more and more of the drug until they begin to ruin the opportunities open to them and develop more serious addictions instead of developing a life for themselves in adulthood. Don’t take the chance.
Help Your Teen Stop Abusing Marijuana
If your teen is using marijuana, do not take it lightly. Make sure there are consequences for her behavior and follow through. If the behavior continues, the consequences should increase in severity. Don’t send mixed messages and don’t back down! It’s important to stand your ground with your child, provide a good example, and enroll them in a teen marijuana rehab if the behavior continues.
If you’d like assistance, contact us at Michael’s House now. We can help you figure out what the next best step for your teen is after marijuana abuse.
