Preventing Teen Marijuana Use

• Marijuana is the second most commonly abused drug by Tahoe-Truckee teens. (But it is now the number one drug for our 11th graders, currently exceeding alcohol) 
• Marijuana can be harmful and has been shown to cause dependence in about 9% of users and 16% of adolescent users.
• Chronic Marijuana use by teens interferes with learning, memory, attention, judgement and focus and has been linked to lower academic achievement and income.
• Marijuana use affects coordination, balance, and distorts time which can impair driving leading to increased risk of accidents.
• Marijuana smoke contains many of the same carcinogens (cancer causing substances) found in tobacco smoke and is linked to respiratory infections and chronic bronchitis.
• While use and possession of marijuana for adults 21+ is legal in California, on school grounds it is still a Misdemeanor criminal offense- where possession can result in fines up to $500, 10 days of jail time, and court costs.
• Selling marijuana to a minor is still a Felony offense in California.  Prison sentence up to 7 years are possible.
• Manufacturing cannabis concentrates by chemical synthesis is still a Felony offense in Ca.  Prison sentence up to 7 years is possible.
 

The science shows that marijuana use by teens can be harmful and use during adolescence greatly increases the risk of developing dependence on the drug. TT-FWDD has a committee specifically working on preventing teen's from begining to use.  We use presentations, videos, speakers and social marketing to build awareness about the harms of use   Athlete committed presentations in the schools teach students how marijuana impacts their athletic performance.  We have copies of the film "The Other Side of Cannabis" available to show to a group you work with.  It shares the stories of young people and adults with marijuana use disorder. Local teens are currently producing a DVD to show to their peers.  Please contact us if you would like more information on how to help.