Marijuana Facts
Unlike adults, the teen brain is actively developing and often will not be fully developed until the mid 20’s. Marijuana use during this period may harm the developing teen brain.
38%
of high school students report having used marijuana in their life.
Negative Effects Include:
- Difficulty thinking and problem solving
- Problems with memory and learning
- Impaired coordination
- Difficulty maintaining attention
Research shows that marijuana use can have permanent effects on the developing brain when use begins in adolescence, especially with regular or heavy use.
Frequent or long-term marijuana use is linked to school dropout and lower educational achievement.
Research shows that about 1 in 6 teens who repeatedly use marijuana can become addicted, which may lead to giving up important activities with friends and family in favor of using marijuana.
How Marijuana Effects Driving
- Marijuana can slow your reaction time and ability to make decisions.
- Marijuana use can impair coordination, distort perception, and lead to memory loss and difficulty in problem-solving.
- The risk of impaired driving associated with marijuana in combination with alcohol appears to be greater than that for either by itself.
7,000
The number of self-reported marijuana users is increasing. In 2014 there were 7,000 new users of marijuana per day.
After alcohol, marijuana is the drug most often linked to drugged driving.
13%
13% of night time, weekend drivers have marijuana in their system; this is up from 9% in 2007
Keep up with the latest updates and legislative changes over at the Oklahoma Medical Marijuana Authority.
Not sure how to approach your kids regarding marijuana? Download the Marijuana Talk Kit for tips and talking points.
