Learn the facts

See how weed impacts developing brains

Our brains are growing and fine-tuning connections until we reach our mid-20s. Using cannabis as a teen can disrupt this growth and impact mental health.¹

Teens users are 2x
more likely to develop depression

Research shows that teens who use cannabis recreationally have increased chances of experiencing depression compared to teens who don’t use. ^{2, 3, 4}

Weed can make anxiety worse

THC messes with the amygdala, the part of the brain that controls emotions, making it harder for teens to manage stress.⁵

THC can lower “happy hormone” levels

Using as a teen can reduce dopamine production in the brain, making it harder for teens to feel happy on their own. ^{1, 6, 7, 8}

Weed users may
face a bigger risk of schizophrenia

Cannabis makes it more likely for teens, especially if they’re genetically at risk, to experience temporary hallucinations and paranoia, and even long-lasting disorders like schizophrenia.⁹

Start talking

Know how to explain the risks to your teen

Teens hear a lot about weed from their friends and social media, making it even harder for them to understand the real risks. By starting the conversation and giving them the facts, you can help protect their mental health.

Start early

Normalize talking about cannabis before kids consider experimenting. That may be as young as 10 years old.

Keep it casual

Family meetings and lectures can be intimidating for kids. Find low-stress, easy moments, like in the car on the way to school, to chat about the risks.

Stick to science

Exaggerations won’t help. Base your conversation on science, like how underage use can impact brain growth and mental health.

Talk with, not at

Keep the conversation two-way by listening to, acknowledging, and encouraging their thoughts and questions—without judgment.

Continue the conversation

Get free resources to learn more

Even if teens act like they’re not listening, what you say about weed influences their decisions and helps them make more informed choices that can protect their health. Get more reasons to talk, plus tips to guide your future conversation, below.

Download the Toolkit