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Rising teen marijuana use is a serious issue. However, most people, including parents and teachers, do not prioritize this issue. The perception surrounding marijuana use has dramatically shifted in recent years. Such a shift in perception is affecting youth and teenagers. As a provider of Youth and Family Services SUD (substance use disorders) Treatment, Tarzana Treatment Centers (TTC) experiences this challenge regularly.

With the legalization of marijuana in various states, there is a growing belief that it is a harmless recreational drug. Unfortunately, this misconception has led to an alarming increase in teen marijuana use. This trend is not without severe consequences, as marijuana is often considered a gateway drug. Indeed, teen marijuana use frequently opens the door to further drug abuse and significant problems both in school and at home.

Normalization and Teen Marijuana Use

Marijuana’s newfound legality contributes to its normalization among teenagers, who often underestimate the drug’s potential risks. Moreover, the increase in availability and diminished stigma make marijuana in many formulations more accessible to young people. As these teenagers eat THC-laced gummy bears or inhale cannabis vapes, they are seldom aware of the detrimental effects.

Moreover, as teen marijuana use rises, so do the chances of these individuals progressing to more dangerous substances. Studies have shown that early marijuana use can pave the way for experimentation with harder drugs, such as cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamines. Indeed, the idea that marijuana is a gateway drug is not a myth.

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), “Animal studies have shown that early exposure to addictive substances, including THC, may change how the brain responds to other drugs. For example, when rodents are repeatedly exposed to THC when they’re young, they later show an enhanced response to other addictive substances—such as morphine or nicotine—in the areas of the brain that control reward, and they’re more likely to show addiction-like behaviors.” Thus, although most people who try marijuana do not go on to use harder drugs, using the drug increases the potential for harder drug use.

The Impact of Teen Marijuana Use

In addition, in many cases, the impact of marijuana use on a teenager’s life is profound. In academic settings, marijuana use results in lower grades, decreased motivation, and higher dropout rates. Moreover, cognitive impairments, such as memory, attention, and learning difficulties, can hinder a student’s academic success. Hence, such challenges lead to a vicious cycle of poor performance and diminished self-esteem. The loss of self-esteem pushes teens further into drug use as a coping mechanism.

At home, the effects of marijuana use can be equally damaging. Strained family relationships, behavioral issues, and emotional instability are common among teens who use marijuana. Parents often struggle to manage the unpredictable behaviors and mood swings that accompany drug use. Thus, teen marijuana use results in conflicts at home and a breakdown in family dynamics. This turbulent home environment often further exacerbates a teenager’s reliance on marijuana and other substances.

Tarzana Treatment Centers Can Help

Amidst these challenges, Tarzana Treatment Centers stands out as a beacon of hope for youth struggling with teen marijuana use and abuse. Our comprehensive treatment services are designed to address the unique needs of teenagers, offering a pathway to recovery and a better life. Moreover, TTC provides a range of evidence-based therapies, including individual counseling, group therapy, and family support. All these modalities are aimed at helping teens overcome their dependency on marijuana.

By focusing on holistic and individualized care, TTC helps teenagers build the skills and resilience needed for long-term recovery. Our programs emphasize education, self-awareness, and the development of healthy coping mechanisms. These programs help to ensure that teens are ready to navigate the challenges of life without resorting to substance abuse. By addressing the root causes of teen marijuana use, TTC opens the door to lasting recovery and a better life for teenagers. To learn more about TTC’s treatment options, please contact us today.