Cannabis

Cannabis is one of the most commonly used substances in Connecticut and across the nation, second only to alcohol. While cannabis is legal in Connecticut for adults 21 and older, that does not mean it is safe for teens. Today’s cannabis is significantly stronger than in the past, with THC levels more than three times higher than 25 years ago.

How Cannabis is Consumed

Cannabis can be consumed in various ways, each with different onset times and durations:

Smoking

Inhaling the smoke from burned cannabis flowers leads to rapid effects within minutes, lasting a few hours.

Vaping

Heating cannabis extracts or oils to produce vapor, which is inhaled, offers quick effects similar to smoking but may produce fewer harmful byproducts.

Edibles

Cannabis-infused foods and beverages have a delayed onset (30 minutes to 2 hours) but last longer (4 to 8 hours or more).

Topicals

Cannabis-infused creams and lotions provide localized relief without psychoactive effects.

Tinctures & Sublinguals

Liquid extracts administered under the tongue work faster than edibles (15-30 minutes onset).

Dabbing

Vaporizing highly concentrated cannabis extracts results in intense, immediate effects but carries a higher risk of overconsumption.

Impact on the Teen Brain

The good news is the latest youth survey data shows 94% of Bolton High students are NOT using cannabis. However, only 60% of teens think cannabis is harmful. Since the brain continues developing until age 25, teens are especially vulnerable to cannabis's effects.

Cognitive Function:

Memory & Learning: Can impair working memory and hinder academic performance.
Executive Function: May disrupt decision-making, impulse control, and goal-setting abilities.

Brain Structure & Connectivity:

Structural Changes: Long-term use may alter brain volume and connectivity, affecting behavior.
Neural Connectivity: Cannabis can interfere with communication between brain regions responsible for cognition and emotion.

Mental Health Risks:

Increased Vulnerability: Regular teen use is linked to higher risks of depression, anxiety, and psychosis.
Schizophrenia Risk: Heavy use in those with a genetic predisposition may heighten the risk.

Long-Term Consequences:

Cannabis Use Disorder: Cannabis is addictive, and long-term use increases the risk of dependency.
Educational & Occupational Impact: Teen cannabis use correlates with lower academic achievement and career setbacks.

Talking to your teens about the risks makes a big impact. 86% of Bolton teens think their parents would disapprove of cannabis use, so keep having those conversations – they are listening! Not sure how to start the conversation? Here are some tips.

Health Effects on the Body & Brain

Cannabis use impacts the body and brain in both the short and long term.

Respiratory Issues: Smoking cannabis can lead to chronic bronchitis and other lung problems.
Cognitive Impairment: Heavy use, especially in teens, may cause lasting memory and learning deficits.
Mental Health Disorders: Increased risk of schizophrenia, depression, and anxiety, particularly in those predisposed.
Addiction & Dependence: Cannabis use disorder can develop, leading to withdrawal symptoms and compulsive use.
Social & Occupational Impairment: Long-term use can negatively impact relationships, work, and academic performance.
Impaired Driving: Cannabis use slows reaction time and impairs judgment, increasing accident risk.

Safe Storage & Disposal

Proper storage and disposal of cannabis prevent accidental ingestion, particularly by children and pets.

Safe Storage:

Keep Out of Reach: Store all cannabis products in a locked cabinet or secure container.
Use Childproof Packaging: Ensure cannabis products are sealed and properly labeled.
Avoid Visibility: Keep cannabis products and paraphernalia out of sight.
Monitor Quantities: Track usage to prevent misuse.
Educate Household Members: Discuss the importance of safe storage and potential risks.

Safe Disposal:

Get tips for safe disposal here.

Destroy Unused Products: Mix with substances like coffee grounds or cat litter before disposal.
Dispose of Packaging Safely: Remove identifying information before recycling or discarding.
Return to Dispensaries: Some dispensaries offer take-back programs for unused cannabis.
Do Not Flush or Trash: Flushing can contaminate water sources, and landfill disposal can pose environmental risks.

What to Do in Case of Accidental Ingestion

If a child or pet consumes cannabis, seek medical help immediately:

For children: Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222.
For pets: Call Animal Poison Control at 1-800-426-4435.

For more resources, visit: Be In The Know CT