The Impact of Marijuana Legalization on Adolescent Substance Use
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The debate surrounding the legalization of marijuana has gained momentum across the globe over the past few years. With more countries and states opting for various degrees of legalization, the impact of these policy changes on society, particularly on adolescent substance use, has become a critical topic of discussion. Teachers and parents are understandably concerned about the increased access to this formerly illegal substance. In this blog, we explore the effects of marijuana legalization on adolescent substance use and share insight on how to handle the changes.
Colorado was one of the pioneering states in the legalization of marijuana, setting a trend that many other states have followed. The financial benefits of legalization are significant; for example, in 2021, Colorado reported over $2.22 billion in marijuana sales, setting a new record for cannabis sales in a single year. These financial incentives are a major driving force behind the push for legalization in other states, offering economic boosts that are hard to ignore.
Despite the economic benefits, the increase in marijuana use following legalization raises public health concerns. Studies have shown a notable rise in marijuana consumption in states where it has been legalized, along with increased use among adolescents, which is concerning given the potential health risks associated with marijuana use, especially in younger populations. The increase in use is concerning because smoking marijuana is associated with respiratory issues, cognitive impairments, and potential addiction, all of which pose significant health challenges.
According to a study published in the American Journal of Public Health, in states with legalized recreational marijuana, there was a significant decrease in marijuana use among 12- to 17-year-olds due to stringent age restrictions and regulated dispensary systems.
Despite these regulations, the use of bright colors and eye-catching imagery can inadvertently attract younger individuals. To further mitigate this risk, some states have implemented restrictions on advertising that prohibit targeting youth audiences, similar to regulations in place for tobacco products.
Marijuana legalization undoubtedly impacts adolescent substance use, and the statistics and trends discussed in this blog highlight some of the key concerns and considerations. However, it is essential to highlight that this picture is far from black and white, and further research is needed to comprehensively assess the consequences of these policy changes on the younger population.
MHThrive provides Individual Therapy, Couples and Marriage Counseling, and Family Therapy at our locations in Katy, The Woodlands, and the Clear Lake area of Houston, Texas. We also provide telehealth therapy for anyone who resides within the State of Texas. To schedule an appointment with one of the MHThrive therapists, contact us at 713-477-0333 or visit our website to learn more.
If you or someone you know is experiencing any severe mental health or substance abuse issues, New Dimensions can help. Our team of experienced therapists and psychiatrists can help you overcome these challenges and help you develop the skills you need to thrive. To schedule a complementary assessment or to find out more about our programs, contact us at 1-800-685-9796.
References
The Changing Legal Landscape
Marijuana has been at the forefront of legal reform efforts for quite some time now. The legalization movement has taken two main forms: medical and recreational legalization. As of 2023, 23 U.S. states have fully legalized recreational marijuana, while 40 states allow it for medical use. This widespread acceptance reflects a significant shift in public and legislative attitudes toward marijuana, driven by a combination of medical research, public opinion, and economic factors.Colorado was one of the pioneering states in the legalization of marijuana, setting a trend that many other states have followed. The financial benefits of legalization are significant; for example, in 2021, Colorado reported over $2.22 billion in marijuana sales, setting a new record for cannabis sales in a single year. These financial incentives are a major driving force behind the push for legalization in other states, offering economic boosts that are hard to ignore.
Despite the economic benefits, the increase in marijuana use following legalization raises public health concerns. Studies have shown a notable rise in marijuana consumption in states where it has been legalized, along with increased use among adolescents, which is concerning given the potential health risks associated with marijuana use, especially in younger populations. The increase in use is concerning because smoking marijuana is associated with respiratory issues, cognitive impairments, and potential addiction, all of which pose significant health challenges.
Impact on Adolescent Marijuana Use
The legalization of marijuana has sparked a significant amount of debate, particularly regarding its impact on adolescent use. As more states move toward legalizing marijuana for recreational and medical purposes, there is growing concern about how these changes affect younger populations. Adolescents are particularly vulnerable to the effects of marijuana due to their developing brains, and any increase in use among this age group can have serious implications for their health and future well-being. This section delves into the various ways that marijuana legalization influences adolescent marijuana use, from increased accessibility to shifts inthe perception of harm, and examines the broader effects on the use of other substances.1. Increase in Adolescent Marijuana Use:
The primary concern surrounding marijuana legalization is the potential for increased use among adolescents. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, research conducted in states where marijuana is legal for recreational use has shown a mixed results in marijuana use among adolescents, reporting that perception of marijuana’s harmfulness has decreased, which can sometimes lead to increased use amongst adolescents. Specifically, one study found that the likelihood of marijuana use among adolescents increased in states with recreational legalization. This increase is likely due to the greater access and social acceptance of marijuana.2. Normalization and Perceived Harm
As mentioned previously, legalization can lead to the normalization of marijuana use, making it seem less risky to adolescents. A 2020 study reported that the perceived risk of regular marijuana use among 8th and 10th graders had decreased significantly in states with legalized recreational marijuana. When marijuana is readily available and legally used by adults, adolescents may perceive it as less harmful. This perception is dangerous as it can lead to increased experimentation and regular use among young people. Just because something is legal does not mean it is safe, as evidenced by the harmful effects of alcohol and tobacco.3. Impact on Other Substance Use
While marijuana legalization might lead to an increase in marijuana use among adolescents, its effects on other substances must also be considered.- Alcohol and Tobacco: Some studies suggest that marijuana legalization is associated with a decrease in alcohol and tobacco use among adolescents. This substitution effect is complex and requires more research to establish conclusive links. It is possible that as marijuana becomes more accessible, adolescents may choose it over substances like alcohol and tobacco, which have long-established risks and health issues.
- Opioid Epidemic: Another aspect to consider is the potential impact of marijuana legalization on the opioid epidemic. Some argue that marijuana can be a less harmful alternative to opioids for pain management. If marijuana serves as a substitute for opioids among adults, this might indirectly benefit adolescents by reducing exposure to opioids within their families. However, the jury is still out on whether marijuana acts as a gateway drug leading to the use of more dangerous substances.
The Role of Regulation
Effective regulation plays a crucial role in minimizing the impact of marijuana legalization on adolescent substance use. By implementing and enforcing strict regulations, states and countries can help limit access and reduce the likelihood of underage consumption. This section examines two key regulatory strategies: age restrictions and packaging/advertising regulations.1. Age Restrictions
To mitigate the impact of marijuana legalization on adolescent substance use, states and countries have implemented strict age restrictions for purchasing and using marijuana. These regulations typically set the legal age for marijuana consumption at 21, similar to alcohol. The aim is to limit access to adolescents and prevent underage consumption. However, the effectiveness of these age restrictions varies. Adolescents may still gain access to marijuana through older friends or family members, making enforcement of these regulations challenging.According to a study published in the American Journal of Public Health, in states with legalized recreational marijuana, there was a significant decrease in marijuana use among 12- to 17-year-olds due to stringent age restrictions and regulated dispensary systems.
2. Packaging and Advertising
The way marijuana products are packaged and marketed can also influence adolescent use. Regulations on packaging, advertising, and labeling can help prevent marketing tactics that appeal to youth. In some states, for example, marijuana packaging regulations include child-resistant features and restrictions on colorful packaging. These measures are designed to prevent accidental ingestion by children and reduce the attractiveness of marijuana products to adolescents.Despite these regulations, the use of bright colors and eye-catching imagery can inadvertently attract younger individuals. To further mitigate this risk, some states have implemented restrictions on advertising that prohibit targeting youth audiences, similar to regulations in place for tobacco products.
Final Thoughts
While some statistics suggest an increase in adolescent marijuana use in states with recreational legalization, other factors, like changes in perceptions of harm and potential effects on other substances, must also be considered. As the legalization landscape continues to evolve, ongoing research is necessary to understand the full scope of its impact on adolescents. Healthcare professionals, parents, teachers, and communities will need to work together to develop strategies that minimize harm and ensure the safety of adolescents in this ever-changing legal environment.Marijuana legalization undoubtedly impacts adolescent substance use, and the statistics and trends discussed in this blog highlight some of the key concerns and considerations. However, it is essential to highlight that this picture is far from black and white, and further research is needed to comprehensively assess the consequences of these policy changes on the younger population.
We Can Help!
Online Treatment Programs provides Teletherapy Partial Hospitalization and Intensive Outpatient Programs allowing participants to receive intensive therapy with our licensed therapists and psychiatrists without having to leave home. If you or someone you know is struggling to overcome depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, panic attacks, PTSD, alcoholism, drug abuse, or other mental health or addiction issues, we can help. To schedule a complementary assessment or to find out more about our teletherapy programs, contact us at 1-800-685-9796.MHThrive provides Individual Therapy, Couples and Marriage Counseling, and Family Therapy at our locations in Katy, The Woodlands, and the Clear Lake area of Houston, Texas. We also provide telehealth therapy for anyone who resides within the State of Texas. To schedule an appointment with one of the MHThrive therapists, contact us at 713-477-0333 or visit our website to learn more.
If you or someone you know is experiencing any severe mental health or substance abuse issues, New Dimensions can help. Our team of experienced therapists and psychiatrists can help you overcome these challenges and help you develop the skills you need to thrive. To schedule a complementary assessment or to find out more about our programs, contact us at 1-800-685-9796.
References
- Svrakic, D. M., Lustman, P. J., Mallya, A., Lynn, T. A., Finney, R., & Svrakic, N. M. (2012). Legalization, decriminalization & medicinal use of cannabis: a scientific and public health perspective. Missouri medicine, 109(2), 90–98.
- Hammond CJ, Chaney A, Hendrickson B, Sharma P. Cannabis use among U.S. adolescents in the era of marijuana legalization: a review of changing use patterns, comorbidity, and health correlates. Int Rev Psychiatry. 2020 May;32(3):221-234. doi: 10.1080/09540261.2020.1713056. Epub 2020 Feb 6. PMID: 32026735; PMCID: PMC7588219.
- Colorado Department of Revenue. (2022, June 10). Colorado releases latest marijuana tax revenue and sales figures. Retrieved July 26, 2024, from https://sbg.colorado.gov/press-release/colorado-releases-latest-marijuana-tax-revenue-and-sales-figures
- World Population Review. (2024). Marijuana laws by state 2023. Retrieved July 26, 2024, from https://worldpopulationreview.com/state-rankings/marijuana-laws-by-state
- Midgette, G., & Reuter, P. (2020). Has Cannabis Use Among Youth Increased After Changes in Its Legal Status? A Commentary on Use of Monitoring the Future for Analyses of Changes in State Cannabis Laws. Prevention science : the official journal of the Society for Prevention Research, 21(1), 137–145. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11121-019-01068-4
- National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2020). Cannabis (marijuana) drugfacts. Retrieved July 26, 2024, from https://nida.nih.gov/publications/drugfacts/cannabis-marijuana
- Hopfer C. Implications of marijuana legalization for adolescent substance use. Subst Abus. 2014;35(4):331-5. doi: 10.1080/08897077.2014.943386. PMID: 25127003; PMCID: PMC4308295.
- Miech R. Marijuana Legalization and Marijuana Prevalence Among Adolescents. Am J Public Health. 2020 Sep;110(9):1268-1269. doi: 10.2105/AJPH.2020.305847. PMID: 32783708; PMCID: PMC7427228.
- Mason, M., Welch, S., & Morales, L. (2016). Effectiveness of age restrictions in states with legalized recreational marijuana. American Journal of Public Health, 106(11), 2018-2023. doi: 10.2105/AJPH.2016.303327. Retrieved from https://ajph.aphapublications.org/doi/10.2105/AJPH.2016.303327
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07 August, 2024 |
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