Ultimately, most parents would like to imagine that their teens would not want to use marijuana. In reality, however, researchers have discovered that marijuana consumption is more prevalent among teens than alcohol use. Also, let’s not forget that the landscape for marijuana has dramatically changed over the years, and the little herb is now being used as an alternative medication by people who suffer from severe medical problems. As a result, even parents are starting to change their views about the plant (now mistakenly labeled as a harmless herb sometimes). Despite the positive outlooks, though, pot is still dangerous for teen brains. So how bad is the situation? Let’s take a closer look at the rates of marijuana use among teenagers.
Statistics about Pot Use
Before we begin, here is a closer look at some previous statistics about marijuana use among teens:
- People who consume pot before the reach 12 years of age are more likely to suffer from a severe mental illness (in contrast to 18-year old first-time pot users).
- Among people 18 and older who used pot long-term, 53% of subjects started consuming the drug between 12 and 17 years of age.
- 2% of people 18 and older who used pot long term had consumed the drug before age 12.
- In 2010, 21% of high school seniors used marijuana, and 19% smoked cigarettes (in a 30-day period prior to the survey).
- 17% of visits to treatment facilities in the United States are related to marijuana use.
The Proof Is in the Pot
Needless to say, marijuana is a popular drug among teenagers (an unfortunate aspect of reality). As you have seen, when you start using the drug at an early age (around 12 years), you are putting yourself at a higher risk of pot abuse later in life. Here are some more facts to consider:
- 20% to 50% of people who use marijuana on a daily basis will suffer from addiction.
- 14% of drivers who die in car accidents had been using marijuana (in contrast with any other drug).
- Teenagers use marijuana more than any other demographic.
- Marijuana use can be a precursor to depression.
- Offenses for marijuana possession and consumption are severe.
Seeking Treatment for Marijuana Use Disorder
Marijuana is a testy drug at best, being labeled as an essential alternative medicine and criticized as a potentially dangerous substance. Always remember, though, this herb does have a potential for abuse or dependency (and possibly addiction). Are you currently abusing this drug? Do you have a loved one or a friend who is attached to pot? If either case is true, get in touch with Asana Recovery today to speak with our team of counselors and healthcare experts.
We are ready to walk you through every step of the detox and withdrawal process and rehabilitation and guide you towards living a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle. Although this road may not be an easy road to travel, we promise to help you every step through withdrawal, detox, and rehab. Take the first step to stay fit, healthy, and safe.
If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how to overcome your drug abuse or addiction troubles today.
