Marijuana comes from the hemp plant Cannabis sativa and is the most frequently used illegal drug in the United States. According to government studies, as many as 30 percent of American teenagers currently smoke marijuana. Some of the most popular nicknames for marijuana include Mary Jane, hash, pot, and weed, but there is a long list of others.

Young people start using marijuana because they see brothers, sisters, friends, and/or older family members smoking it. Sometimes teenagers will smoke marijuana to escape from problems at home, school, or in relationships. Young people might also start smoking marijuana because of peer pressure from the other teenagers at school. Teenagers are faced with pressure to smoke marijuana because of multiple references to the drug in music, TV, and movies.

Some of the short-term effects of smoking marijuana include problems with memory and learning, distorted perception (of sights, sounds, time, and touch), trouble thinking and problem solving, loss of coordination, and increased heart rate. Some of the long-term effects of smoking marijuana include some cancers and problems with the respiratory and immune systems.

Some signs that a loved one may be smoking marijuana include increased rate of breathing, red eyes, increased appetite (the munchies), and slowed reaction time. Some symptoms of withdrawal from marijuana abuse include aggression, anxiety, depression, and decreased appetite.

For more information about marijuana abuse, contact Solace Counseling and get started on the road to recovery today!