Addressing teen mental distress and cannabis use.

What is driving the rise in cannabis use among teenagers? Recent reports indicate that mental distress among teens is increasing, which might be connected to their heightened cannabis consumption.

Are teenagers turning to cannabis to manage mental distress, or is cannabis use itself leading to mental health issues in teens?

Is cannabis a factor in teen mental illness, or does mental distress lead to increased cannabis use among teens?

This is akin to the classic question of which came first, the chicken or the egg.

Evidence indicates that heightened mental distress in teens is linked to societal pressures such as loneliness, unemployment, bullying, discrimination, exposure to conflict, natural disasters, and the pressures from social media.

These factors can create a propensity or urge to use cannabis as a coping mechanism. Conversely, teens may use cannabis due to peer pressure or experimentation, which can increase the risk of mental health disorders like psychosis, especially given the availability of high-potency cannabis.

Stressors, regardless of their origin, must be addressed promptly to prevent a downward spiral into mental illness and substance addiction.

Therefore, whether the rise in teen cannabis use stems from increased societal pressures or the availability of substances, educational resources are essential. These should inform teens and families about the harmful effects of cannabis and guide them in adopting strategies for behavior change, including achieving balance in their lives.

Additionally, policies should be implemented at community and governmental levels to address school culture, safe neighborhoods, poverty, equity, social justice, and personal dignity.

Such measures would significantly and reduce the pressures overwhelming teens today, potentially leading to cannabis use and subsequent mental disorders.

Resource: "Cannabis and other Substance Use: an Information Guide for Adolescents".

Available at www.amazon.com