Teen Marijuana Drug Abuse: Might have fun while smoking but can lead to mental health Issues down the road

In one study’s findings demonstrated a relationship between cannabis use and anxiety and mood disorders. The study concluded that those who smoke cannabis on a daily basis have a significantly greater chance of having an anxiety or mood disorder than those who abstain (Cheung, Mann, Ialomiteanu, Stoduto, Chan, & Rehm, 2010). One of the more interesting results from the study was that even smoking at relatively low levels (i.e once a week, or month), for some individuals an anxiety or mood disorder may still occur (Cheung, Mann, Ialomiteanu, Stoduto, Chan, & Rehm, 2010) .

Another study that was recently published by the World health Organization on teen use of marijuana and depression concurred with the finding of the first study. This study surveyed 50,000 adults in 17 countries taking part in a World Health Organization mental health study. The results of the study found a correlation between teen marijuana drug abuse and depression later in life (de Graaf et al, 2010 ). In addition, study also concluded that there would be a 50% increase in the risk of developing a mood disorder such as depression for those who smoke during adolescence (de Graaf et al, 2010).

As stated above, anxiety disorders can be very debilitating illnesses associated with teen drug abuse.

Anxiety disorders are characterized by:
• Constant worrying or obsession about small or large concerns
• Restlessness and feeling keyed up or on edge
• Fatigue
• Difficulty concentrating or your mind "going blank"
• Irritability
• Muscle tension or muscle aches
• Trembling, feeling twitchy or being easily startled
• Trouble sleeping
• Sweating, nausea or diarrhea
• Shortness of breath or rapid heartbeat

In children and adolescents:
In addition to the symptoms and other conditions above, teens may have excessive worries about:
• Performance at school or sporting events
• Being on time (punctuality)
• Earthquakes, nuclear war or other catastrophic events
A teen with the disorder may also:
• Feel overly anxious to fit in
• Be a perfectionist
• Lack confidence
• Redo tasks because they aren't perfect the first time
• Strive for approval
• Require a lot of reassurance about performance
(Mayo clinic , 2009)

Depression is another debilitating disease that parents must watch for if they find out that their teen used drugs such as marijuana. Depression in teens includes:
• Sadness or hopelessness
• Irritability, anger, or hostility
• Tearfulness or frequent crying
• Withdrawal from friends and family
• Loss of interest in activities
• Changes in eating and sleeping habits
• Restlessness and agitation
• Feelings of worthlessness and guilt
• Lack of enthusiasm and motivation
• Fatigue or lack of energy
• Difficulty concentrating
• Thoughts of death or suicide
(Mayo Clinic , 2010)

To conclude, parents please mindful of you teen’s activities. Marijuana can destroy a person’s life. Thankfully, these studies are coming to light; because for years now there has been an argument that marijuana was safer and should not be illegal. Now we have tangible evidence to show that this drug can cause long term psychiatric issues that could negatively affect your teen’s future.

If you are a friend or family member of a teen struggling with drug and or alcohol abuse, call now for help at our toll free teen addiction treatment center helpline:
1-888-757-6237 or e-mail us.

Inspirations for Youth and Families aka, Inspirations Teen Rehab is here to help your teen and your family through this difficult process.