Cannabis legalization increases youth marijuana use and mental health risks

In the United States, the shift in societal beliefs about cannabis usage has been pronounced since the legalization of nonmedical marijuana in states such as Colorado and Washington in 2012. Following this development, 22 additional states have also legalized cannabis for adult use. The Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry published a study revealing that these legislative changes resulted in a notable 13 percent rise in past-month marijuana use among youth aged 12 to 17, and a 22 percent increase among young adults aged 18 to 25. This is a significant concern, especially considering the association between adolescent cannabis use and adverse mental health outcomes. Research conducted by the National Institutes of Health in 2021 provided alarming insights into the impact of cannabis on developing brains. A longitudinal study involving 799 teenagers found that cannabis use was adversely linked to the thickness of specific brain regions, namely the left and right prefrontal cortices. These areas are crucial for cognitive functions such as decision-making and impulse control, suggesting that early cannabis use may hinder proper brain development during these formative years. Moreover, a systematic review published in the same year assessed 81 studies and concluded that adolescent cannabis consumption is significantly correlated with an elevated risk of psychosis later in life, adding to the concerns of experts regarding the substance's long-term effects. The notion that cannabis is harmless or benign is troubling to many experts. They emphasize that THC acts at a slower pace, leading to potential long-term structural changes in the brain of those under age 25. Consequently, THC may serve as a trigger for mental health conditions such as psychosis, depression, and even suicidal behavior. Statistics from the studies highlight that cannabis usage among adolescents correlates with lower IQ levels and diminished overall life satisfaction, showcasing the insidious trajectory of cannabis's effects on youth. While there are arguments presenting benefits of legalization, including the reduction of over-policing in minority communities and safety measures put in place for regulated cannabis sales, the overall increase in youth usage and the associated mental health risks remain critical issues. Experts advocate for increased parental engagement in discussing the potential harms of THC with their children to mitigate these growing concerns surrounding youth cannabis use.