Cannabis is a drug that alters the mind and affects the way we think, feel and behave. It’s often used recreationally, and its consumption is increasing worldwide.

Although many believe that cannabis is harmless, research conducted over the years indicates otherwise. According to the American Psychological Association, cannabis use in adolescence may lead to lower IQ.

What is cannabis?

Cannabis, also known as marijuana, weed, or pot, is a greenish-gray mixture of the dried flowers, leaves, stems, and seeds of the cannabis plant.

It’s often used for its psychoactive effects, which result from its primary active ingredient, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).

Why do people use cannabis?

People use cannabis for various reasons, including medical, recreational, or spiritual purposes. THC primarily affects the brain, altering perception, mood, and behavior.

Some studies suggest that cannabis may help with chronic pain, inflammation, epilepsy, and other medical conditions.

However, the evidence is not conclusive, and more research is needed to determine cannabis’ effectiveness for treating these conditions.

Adolescents and cannabis use

Adolescence is a time of significant change and development, both physically and mentally. It’s also a time when many individuals start experimenting with drugs like cannabis.

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), cannabis use among adolescents is a widespread problem in the US, with about 1 in 7 high school seniors reporting that they use cannabis.

This trend is alarming, considering that cannabis use can have significant consequences on adolescent brain development and mental health.

How does cannabis affect adolescent brain development?

Studies suggest that cannabis use during adolescence can have profound and long-lasting effects on the brain, particularly the prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for complex decision-making and other higher-order cognitive functions.

The prefrontal cortex is not fully developed until the mid-20s, and cannabis use during adolescence can interfere with its development, causing long-term cognitive deficits.

Some of the potential effects of cannabis use during adolescence on the brain include:.

Lower IQ
Poorer memory and attention span
Impaired learning abilities
Reduced verbal fluency and processing speed
Increased risk of addiction and substance use disorder

Effect of cannabis on academic performance

Studies suggest that cannabis use during adolescence can negatively affect academic performance.

In a study published in the Journal of Educational Psychology, researchers found that cannabis use was associated with lower grade point averages, a higher likelihood of dropping out of school, and lower college enrollment rates.

Another study published in the Journal of School Health found that frequent cannabis use was associated with lower scores on mathematics and reading comprehension tests and a higher number of school absences.

Cannabis use and mental health

Cannabis use can also have significant effects on mental health, particularly for adolescents.

Studies suggest that cannabis use during adolescence is associated with an increased risk of developing psychiatric disorders such as depression, anxiety, and psychosis.

In a study published in the journal Addiction, researchers found that adolescents who used cannabis had a higher risk of developing depression and suicidal thoughts in early adulthood.

Conclusion

In conclusion, cannabis use in adolescence may lead to lower IQ and have other harmful effects on the brain, academic performance, and mental health.

Parents and educators should be aware of the potential consequences of cannabis use and educate adolescents on the risks associated with drug use.

Further research is needed to better understand the long-term effects of cannabis use on the adolescent brain and to develop effective prevention and treatment strategies for individuals suffering from cannabis use disorders.