One unfortunate story we have heard in the news is how teenagers and young adults love to experiment with marijuana. Still, have you ever wondered when they first get the idea to start? Research has indicated that a variety of factors ranging from peer pressure to the availability of the drug can play a huge role in the “self-discovery of pot,” but these kids need to start somewhere. So, what age is the most common? According to recent reports, children may first receive an introduction to pot during junior high or early high school years, but the standard age for smoking is 16 years. Still, you have to consider certain factors when determining the gradual ascension to pot use. Let’s take a closer look and find out when children start experimenting with the mind-altering little green plant called marijuana.
Age Is Everything
When it comes to marijuana use, age is literally everything. According to a report from Monitoring for the Future, roughly 15.6% of 8th-grade students had experimented with pot or hashish at least 1 time during their lives, while roughly 11.7% had consumed pot in the past year (when the survey was taken). In addition, 6.5% of teens in this age group had consumed marijuana in the month before the survey.
Likewise, one survey from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration showcases that children can start in their early teens. As part of the review, officials confirmed that 14% of people who took part in drug or alcohol treatment had experimented with drugs before they were 13 years old. Once these children reached the 10th grade, the rate of long-term (lifetime) smoking boosted to 33.7%, while the number of subjects who indulged in the past year raised to 27.3%. Meanwhile, past-month smokers increased by 16.6%.
Under the Influence…of People
Researchers have indicated that one of the reasons pot use increases from 8th to 10 grades is due to the influence of peers. Teenagers who have friends or siblings who indulge in pot are more likely to experiment that young people who are not associated with drug users. Let’s also not forget that this transition period is very difficult for teens. Moving from junior high to the perils of high school is a trying experience, especially when you are still developing physically and mentally.
Seeking Treatment for Marijuana Use Disorder
Marijuana may be marketed as an alternative medication, but teenagers and young adults should never indulge in a drug that could potentially warp their minds and bodies. If you are suffering from marijuana abuse or have a friend or family member who is coping with this terrible problem, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our professional team of counselors and healthcare experts will help you endure the painful process detox and withdrawal and guide you through each step of rehabilitation to help you separate yourself from these substances.
If you want to find out more about our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs or enroll in one of these programs today, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your leisure and your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how you can kick your marijuana use to the curb.
