The Terrifying Effects of Marijuana on Young Brains

As an ER doctor, starting in around 2012, I became alarmed that we were seeing numerous patients in their teens and twenties who had developed psychiatric problems as a direct result of marijuana. And these weren’t temporary psychotic breaks when they were high. These effects didn’t wear off. I am talking about new onset, permanent schizophrenia at age 15 years old as a direct consequence of repeated use of high-potency marijuana. For those who “smoked a little weed” when they were younger, that might seem like far-fetched fear mongering. It is not. Unlike the marijuana of decades past, today’s cannabis strains and products often contain dramatically higher levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Research indicates that the average THC content in confiscated marijuana samples has risen from about 3% in the 1980s to around 15% today, with some products exceeding 50% THC through concentrated extracts. This surge in potency means even casual use by adolescents and young adults can expose their developing brains to huge doses of THC.

Brain Development and THC

Adolescence through the mid-twenties is a critical period for brain development, particularly in areas like the prefrontal cortex, which governs decision-making, problem-solving, and self-control. Introducing high levels of THC during this stage disrupts normal development processes. Behavior and memory can change. According to a 2019 study published in the journal NeuroImage, there is clear evidence that teenagers who use cannabis have a thinner cerebral cortex in areas related to complex cognition like memory, attention, decision-making, and language.

Long-term Consequences

A longitudinal study by the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMW) found that heavy use in youth can lead to long-lasting cognitive impairments. Moreover, several studies, including those published in the Journal of Neuroscience, have shown alterations in brain connectivity that resemble those seen in schizophrenia, with symptoms often persisting even after discontinuing marijuana use.

Psychological Effects

Beyond the structural changes, the psychological impact of early marijuana use is profound. Research links early and regular marijuana use with an increased incidence of anxiety, depression, and psychosis. The risk of developing disorders such as schizophrenia increases with the frequency of use and the potency of the THC consumed.

Conclusion

The evidence is clear: the robust potency of modern marijuana can have detrimental, and often permanent, effects on the developing brains of adolescents. If you have kids, talk to them about this issue and let them know about the enormous risks of use at a young age (below thirty). As the accessibility and acceptance of marijuana continue to grow, it is crucial for parents, educators, and policymakers to address these risks with effective prevention strategies and education about the potential long-term impact of early marijuana use.