5 Things Parents Need to Know About Recreational Marijuana

Michigan recently voted to legalize recreational marijuana. There are a lot of questions surrounding this legislation and what it actually means for people who live in Michigan. Here is a quick reference guide for parents on what you need to know in regard to your teen using marijuana:

1. If you are under 21, it is still illegal for you to purchase, use, or have marijuana in your possession. Anyone under the age of 21 will still be fined and will go through the legal system much like if a minor is charged with possession of alcohol. It’s still illegal for anyone to use on federal property, at schools, or in public.
2. Because recreational marijuana is legal, “edibles” will be more readily available. It’s important for parents to be on the lookout for these as the THC content is generally much higher and can be much more dangerous for those ingesting them. Many times, edibles are disguised as gummy bears or other yummy looking candies and baked goods, which pose a serious threat to younger children who may be around them and accidentally ingest them.
3. Use of marijuana, especially use starting by age 14, can lead to substance use disorders or mood disorders later in life. When marijuana is used before the brain is fully developed, the THC in marijuana can interfere with the remaining development left for the individual. Also, Schizophrenia is more prevalent in people who use marijuana regularly during their adolescence than those who do not.
4. The National Institute on Drug Abuse says that THC alters senses, changes mood, impairs body movement, causes difficulty with thinking and problem solving, impairs memory, and can cause hallucinations, delusions, and psychosis.
5. Signs to look for if you think your child may be using Marijuana:
   • Bloodshot eyes
   • Increased appetite
   • Lack of motivation or energy
   • Weight gain
   • Nervous or paranoid behavior
   • Impaired coordination
   • Slowed reaction time
   • Excessive sleep or lethargy
   • Pipes
   • Vaping devices
   • Shredded leafy debris
   • Small bottles of oil
   • Metal clips
   • Eye drops

It’s important to keep lines of communication open with your teen. Try to approach the subject with empathy and in a non-judgmental way. It’s never too early to start talking about drugs with your kids. If you suspect that your teen may be experimenting with marijuana or any other substance, please call our Bouma Counseling Center to schedule an appointment with one of our highly skilled substance use clinicians.

To learn more about Wedgwood’s continuum of care for Substance Use Disorder click here. If you or someone you know is in need of services please call our Bouma Counseling Center at (616) 942-7294 or click here for more information about services available in your county.