POY Teen Handbook - English

MARIJUANA

Marijuana: The dried flowers and leaves of the cannabis plant. It contains mind-altering compounds like tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Just like alcohol, impairment begins when any amount of marijuana has been consumed.

There are many risks and dangers in consuming marijuana, including: About 1 in 10 marijuana users will become addicted. For people who begin using before the age of 18, that number rises to 1 in 6 .

The amount of THC in marijuana has been increasing steadily over the past few decades. Higher THC levels may also mean a greater risk for addiction. Marijuana significantly impairs judgment, motor coordination, and reaction time. Studies have found a direct relationship between blood THC concentration and impaired driving ability.

Legalization: If you live in a state that passed laws to legalize recreational marijuana for adults, you may have questions. This doesn’t mean it’s “safe” to consume underage. No matter your opinion on legalization, it is illegal in all states for anyone under 21 to use marijuana recreationally.

5 Power To Take A Stand

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