As more states talk about legalizing marijuana, many people think it’s harmless. But the truth is, marijuana can cause serious health, safety, social, and learning problems—especially for teens.
Talking with your child about marijuana helps them understand the real risks. Here are some key facts to guide the conversation.
Marijuana Affects Your Health
Some people believe marijuana is safe, but it can harm the body. It can raise heart rate and affect blood pressure, which can be risky—especially for people with heart problems.
Short-term effects can include:
- Anxiety
- Trouble remembering things
- Difficulty focusing
- Sleep problems
At high doses, marijuana can cause psychosis, which means losing touch with reality. This may include:
- Delusions (false beliefs)
- Hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that aren’t real)
People who start using marijuana at a young age may have a higher risk of mental health problems later in life.
Marijuana Can Be Addictive
Many people think marijuana isn’t addictive, but it can be. Some users develop dependence and feel like they need it.
When they stop using, they may have:
- Irritability
- Anxiety
- Restlessness
- Nausea
- Trouble sleeping
Some people also keep using marijuana even when it causes problems at school, work, or in relationships.
Marijuana Affects Brain Health
Marijuana can affect how the brain grows and works. On average, it can lower IQ by up to eight points.
This is especially true for teens because the brain is still developing until the mid-to-late 20s.
It can lead to:
- Trouble learning and remembering
- Poor decision-making
- Lower grades
- Missed school or work
- Low motivation and productivity
Marijuana Affects Lung Health
Smoking marijuana can harm your lungs. The smoke contains harmful chemicals—sometimes even more than tobacco smoke.
This can lead to breathing problems over time.
Marijuana Affects Your Ability to Drive
Driving under the influence of marijuana is dangerous. It can:
- Slow reaction time
- Affect coordination
- Reduce focus and alertness
This increases the risk of a crash, even at low or moderate levels.
Marijuana Is Still Illegal (for Many Situations)
In North Dakota, marijuana laws can be confusing.
- For adults 21 and older with small amounts, there may be a fine.
- For people under 21, possession is still a crime and can lead to jail time and fines.
- Marijuana concentrates (like oils, waxes, and edibles) are illegal for all ages and have stronger penalties.