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As THC Levels in Marijuana Surge, Teen Addiction and Psychosis Follow Suit
The rising popularity of highly potent marijuana products is leading to serious physical and mental health issues among teenagers.
By: Jamie Thompson
Date: June 23, 2022
If you ever tried cannabis as a teenager, the thought of your own child experimenting with it might not seem alarming. After all, the worst-case scenario might just involve them devouring an entire box of cookies while laughing at a movie for the hundredth time, right? However, today’s teens aren’t experimenting with the low-potency marijuana of past decades, which typically had THC levels around 4%. Instead, they’re consuming or vaping cannabis oils that contain up to 95% THC. As the potency of marijuana has skyrocketed, its negative side effects have escalated from merely increased appetite to severe issues like addiction, psychosis, and unexplained health problems.
Ava, who began using THC cartridges at age 14, shared with The New York Times that her initial experience was one of “incredible euphoria,” but that quickly turned into anxiety and fainting episodes. She continued using the carts, believing that cannabis being “natural” made it safe. Yet, even in its most natural form, research has shown a strong link between regular cannabis consumption and the onset of psychosis, characterized by a disconnect from reality and experiencing hallucinations. This risk is even greater for adolescents who frequently use high-potency cannabis. A 2021 study in JAMA Psychiatry noted that in 1995, only 2% of schizophrenia diagnoses in Denmark were linked to cannabis use; however, by 2010, this figure had risen to 6-8% as marijuana products became stronger. Another study published in The Lancet Psychiatry found that individuals who regularly used high-potency cannabis were five times more likely to develop a psychotic disorder compared to those who had never used it. The dangers appear to be heightened for younger users.
In 2018, JAMA Pediatrics reported that 40% of teens who use cannabis experience distressing side effects, including intense paranoia, anxiety, and hallucinations. “The younger you are, the more susceptible your brain is to these issues,” stated Dr. Emily Wright, director of the Adolescent Substance Use and Addiction Program at Boston Children’s Hospital, emphasizing that high-concentration products are contributing to a rise in negative experiences with cannabis.
Additionally, adolescents face various physical ailments due to regular cannabis use, some of which may not manifest until years of heavy consumption. Ava was eventually diagnosed with cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS), which is known for causing severe vomiting, often described as “scromiting,” due to the intense pain experienced. During one episode, she recounted vomiting over 20 times within just two hours.
There are also serious health risks associated with the oils used in high-potency THC vaping cartridges. These oils often contain cutting agents for flavor and viscosity that have been linked to significant pulmonary issues and respiratory inflammation. Regular use can lead to both physical and psychological dependence. High-potency THC products usually lack any significant amount of CBD, the compound in cannabis known for its health benefits like easing pain and controlling seizures. Some research suggests that the lower CBD levels in these products may contribute to their addictive nature, which could explain the increased number of teenagers seeking help for THC addiction.
Despite the alarming information, some teens may still choose to vape or consume cannabis in various forms. This highlights the importance of fostering open conversations with teenagers about moderation and harm reduction, as well as recognizing the signs of potential THC misuse.
For further reading on similar topics, check out this post on cannabis effects in teens.
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Summary:
Cannabis-induced psychosis is increasingly affecting teenagers as they consume more potent marijuana products. The risks associated with high THC levels include anxiety, hallucinations, and severe physical ailments. Experts stress the need for conversations about moderation and harm reduction to help mitigate these risks.
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