The dangers of cannabis in adolescents
The Dangers of Cannabis in Adolescents: Understanding and Taking Action
An alarming reality
Depression, academic failure, romantic difficulties, psychosis… the dangers of cannabis among adolescents are a reality. What are the consequences of cannabis use in adolescence? Can we protect our children against this scourge? This article takes stock of a phenomenon that has persisted for several decades.
Why do teenagers use cannabis?
Adolescence is a period of transition marked by the quest for independence, the need for self-affirmation and the exploration of prohibitions. This desire to emancipate oneself pushes some young people to experiment with risky behaviors, often under the influence of those around them or a permissive social context.
🔹 A minimized perception of dangers : Cannabis is often considered a "soft drug", which can encourage adolescents to trivialize its use, without measuring the real impacts on their health and cognitive development.
🔹 Easy access and relatively low cost : Unlike other illicit substances, cannabis is more accessible and affordable, which encourages its early use.
🔹 Group influence and social pressure : The desire to fit in with a group, follow a fashion or avoid being perceived as different can lead to initial experimentation.
🔹 Curiosity and the search for sensations : Adolescence being a phase of exploration, some young people are attracted by the euphoric effect of cannabis, sometimes without understanding the long-term consequences.
Although this consumption is often perceived as harmless, it can have effects on memory, concentration and psychological well-being, with increased risks of dependence depending on the frequency and intensity of use.
Health and behavioral consequences
Effects on the brain
Cannabis use, especially before the age of 15, disrupts brain maturation. Studies link the drug to serious disorders, such as schizophrenia.
Dangerous behaviors
The psychotropic effects of cannabis increase the risks of:
- Smoking-related diseases (cancers, cardiovascular disorders).
- Road accidents.
- Unprotected sex.
- Violence and impulsive behavior.
Emotional impact
Depression and suicide are possible outcomes for adolescent drug users. Under the influence of drugs, they may act recklessly, exacerbating pre-existing problems.
The risk of addiction and the gateway effect to other drugs
Regular cannabis use leads to a gradual tolerance to THC , the plant's main psychoactive compound. As the body becomes accustomed to the effects, the adolescent may be tempted to increase the doses or turn to other substances to find stronger sensations. This phenomenon, known as the gateway effect , can lead to experimentation with more powerful and addictive drugs.
🔹 "Classic" drugs : Some cannabis users end up trying stimulants like cocaine , ecstasy (MDMA) , or opiates like heroin , often under the influence of those around them or in search of new sensations.
🔹 New psychoactive substances (NPS) : Easy access to synthetic drugs on the Internet has favored the emergence of new powerful and dangerous substances, such as synthetic cannabinoids (Spice, K2), cathinones (m-CAT, Flakka) or synthetic opioids (fentanyl, nitazenes), with much more destructive and addictive effects than cannabis.
Long-term consequences
📉 School dropout
- Loss of concentration, decreased motivation and impaired cognitive abilities affect academic performance , increasing the risk of repeating a grade or dropping out.
🩺 Physical and mental health
- Risks similar to those of tobacco, including respiratory and cardiovascular problems and a weakening of the immune system .
- Early use can also promote anxiety, depression and, in some cases, trigger latent psychiatric disorders (such as schizophrenia).
🤝 Personal and social relationships
- Excessive consumption can impair judgment and promote risky behaviors , including early and unstable relationships, impulsive marriages or unwanted pregnancies .
- Family conflicts, loss of bearings and social isolation are common among young regular users.
1. Strengthen educational initiatives
School programs play a key role in raising awareness of the dangers of cannabis and other substances. However, adolescents may be resistant to institutional messages, especially when they come from an authority figure. The approach must be adapted, interactive and realistic , with an emphasis on concrete testimonies and accessible scientific facts.
2. Adopt effective prevention strategies
✅ Accountability
- Rather than simply banning, show the concrete consequences :
- "If you drink before driving, you can cause an accident."
- “Regular consumption can cause you to lose professional opportunities.”
- “Your athletic and academic performance may suffer.”
✅ Open and non-judgmental dialogue
- Teens are more likely to listen if the dialogue is based on active listening and kindness . Rather than demonizing, ask open-ended questions:
- “What do you know about cannabis?”
- “Have you ever been in a situation where you were offered to consume it?”
- “What would make you want to try?”
✅ Inform to decide better
- Rather than fueling fear, explain how drugs work on the brain and their real consequences . A well-informed teenager will be more likely to make informed decisions .
3. Provide access to support resources
📞 Drugs Info Service (0 800 23 13 13 – anonymous and free call)
- A listening and advice line for young people and those around them.
- Available 7 days a week, with professionals trained to answer questions, reassure and guide towards suitable solutions .
💻 Youth Health Thread ( www.filsantejeunes.com )
- Platform dedicated to young people aged 12 to 25 with a chat, a forum and articles on substance use.
- An educational and caring approach to help young people better understand the risks and set their own limits .
🏥 Young Consumer Consultations (CJC)
- Present in many cities, these consultations allow young people and their families to benefit from individualized and non-judgmental support .
- Free and confidential access.
🏫 Interventions in schools and associations
- Associations such as France Addictions or MILDECA (Interministerial Mission to Combat Drugs and Addictive Behavior) offer prevention actions adapted to young people , based on discussion and awareness.
Conclusion
Cannabis is a pervasive danger facing teens. Being vigilant, empowering your kids, and maintaining constructive dialogue are essential steps to protecting them. Together, we can reduce the risks and help young people avoid the pitfalls of cannabis use.
