Although society has loosened its stance on the drug, marijuana abuse remains a prevalent issue among teens today. The following information will address some of the reasons marijuana is a commonly abused drug. It will also discuss the signs of marijuana abuse to make it easier for parents to recognize a serious problem.
Why is Marijuana Common Among Teens?
Marijuana is an illicit psychoactive drug that comes from the cannabis plant. The drug is popular among teenagers for several reasons. For starters, marijuana is fairly easy to access in most areas. Secondly, many teens believe that marijuana is a safer drug than many other forms of illicit drugs. Lastly, marijuana is often more affordable for teens to acquire on a regular basis.
What Are the Signs of Marijuana Abuse?
As a caring parent, it’s understandable to be concerned about your teen’s well-being. Recognizing the signs of marijuana abuse is an essential first step in seeking proper help. In order to determine if your teen has an issue with marijuana, pay attention to the following signs:
New Friends
Teens may begin associating with different friends who engage in marijuana abuse. In fact, they may not want you to meet these new friends.
Problems at School
The effects of marijuana can prevent teens from performing well at school. As a result, their grades in school may drop. They may also get into trouble in other ways.
Unusual Behaviours
If your teens abuse marijuana, they may begin to act in unusual ways. For example, their personalities may change. They may also lose interest in their favorite hobbies.
Reclusive Behaviour
Those who are under the influence of marijuana may also begin to spend a lot of time alone. In some cases, social withdrawal may also indicate a serious form of depression.
How Should I Help My Teen Affected by Marijuana Abuse?
It’s certainly natural for caring parents to be concerned about the health and welfare of their teens. If you’re afraid that your teen might be struggling with marijuana abuse, there are many troubled teen programs available to provide essential support. As you search for proper professional treatment, be sure to keep the lines of communication open with your teen. Remember that effective substance abuse treatment comes in many forms.
With several locations in Canada, Venture Academy offers compassionate behaviour treatment for troubled teens. They offer innovative treatment options for the complex problems today’s teenagers deal with.
Don’t let addiction continue to tear your family apart. Contact Venture Academy at 866.762.2211 to find out the ways we can help your family heal from the effects of marijuana abuse.
