A large-scale study conducted by scientists at the Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons has shown that even using marijuana just once or twice a month among adolescents is directly linked to declining academic performance and emotional distress.
According to the study, which is based on data from more than 160,000 American students, the more frequently adolescents consume cannabis, the higher the probability of problems related to social relationships and academic achievement.
Experts explain that even using marijuana a few times can escalate into serious academic difficulties. Adolescents who use the substance regularly often experience decreased concentration, skip school, and lose interest in future goals.
This trend is particularly concerning given that currently, one in five high school seniors in the United States is a cannabis user, while 6% of high school seniors smoke marijuana daily.
The fact that modern products contain significantly more THC (the active ingredient) than they did decades ago is causing particular alarm, making them more dangerous. Since the brain is still forming the neural connections necessary for learning, self-control, and emotional regulation during adolescence, the use of such substances interferes with these processes and may cause developmental delays.
Data analysis shows that those who used cannabis only once or twice a month exhibited symptoms of depression, anxiety, and impulsive behavior much more frequently than those who did not use marijuana at all. In the case of adolescents who used marijuana almost daily, the risk of declining academic performance increased fourfold.
Experts advise parents to establish honest and open communication with their children at an early age. It is important for adolescents to realize that the “natural” origin of a substance does not mean it is safe.
Additionally, parents should pay attention to signs such as deteriorating academic performance, sudden mood swings, or loss of interest in favorite activities, as all of these may be caused by cannabis use.
