International School Parent Magazine - Spring 2024

esembling ear wax in appearance and
known as wax, shatter, or dabs, are created
by extracting THC with chemicals to
produce extremely potent concentrates.
With THC levels that can soar to 99%,
concentrates deliver a powerful and rapid
effect, posing a heightened risk of overdose
for those with low THC tolerance.
The Risks
High-potency cannabis, defined as
containing over 20% THC or more than 10
mg of THC per serving, is the new normal.
This shift towards stronger cannabis
products raises significant questions about
its impact and risk, particularly for parents
of teenagers.
Cannabis has emerged as the leading
cause for substance-related treatment
among young people in the United States,
with teenagers being particularly susceptible
to addiction due to their developing brains.
Contrary to the longstanding myth that
cannabis is non-addictive, recent findings
highlight the tangible mental health risks
associated with high-potency cannabis use.
These include:
• A notable rise in addiction rates is
evidenced by a 76% increase in individuals
seeking treatment for cannabis use disorder
in Europe.
• An increased likelihood of experiencing
anxiety and depression later in life.
• A heightened risk of developing
schizophrenia, particularly for
those with a familial history
of psychotic disorders.
• More pronounced
withdrawal symptoms
such as mood and
sleep disturbances
associated with the
cessation of highpotency
cannabis
use.
Ongoing
research continues
to investigate the
long-term effects
of cannabis use
on memory and
cognitive functions,
indicating that our
understanding of these
effects is still evolving.
However, the impact of
cannabis on the developing
adolescent brain is well-known among
“Ongoing research continues to investigate the long-term effects
of cannabis use on memory and cognitive functions, indicating
that our understanding of these effects is still evolving. ”
addiction experts.
Among the notable impacts of highpotency
cannabis on teenagers are a range
of concerning symptoms and potential
long-term consequences. One such
emerging condition is cannabis hyperemesis
syndrome, characterised by episodes of
uncontrollable vomiting as a result of
continued long-time use of the drug.
Additionally, the risk of addiction escalates
with the frequent use of high-potency
cannabis, which can also precipitate
episodes of psychosis. Such episodes
have the potential to evolve into lifelong
psychiatric conditions.
Studies also indicate changes in brain
anatomy and connectivity, alongside
impairments in memory, as potential
outcomes of regular high-potency cannabis
use. Furthermore, there’s an increased
likelihood of teenagers developing
depression and experiencing suicidal
thoughts.
These findings underscore the
importance for parents to be well-informed
about the evolving nature of cannabis and
its amplified risks, particularly in guiding
their teenagers through formative brain
development years.
What Parents Can Do
As cannabis becomes more potent and
its legal status changes, parents play a key
role in guiding their teenagers. Keeping up
with the latest cannabis research and facts
about the substance is crucial. If think your
child is exposed to misinformation about
cannabis, sit down with them and model
media literacy by referencing reputable
sources of information such as your
country’s health ministry website, where you
will be able to access the latest information
on cannabis addiction rates, hospitalisations,
and more. Other excellent resources include
the National Institute on Drug Abuse
(NIDA) or Substance Abuse and Mental
Health Services Administration.
Clear rules about cannabis use at home
are essential. Parents need to be clear
about what is the rules are and what the
consequences of breaking these rules.
Since stress often leads young people to
try substances like alcohol and cannabis
parents need to model healthy ways to deal
with stress and encourage their teenagers
to communicate any mental health
concerns.
Explaining the importance
of delaying the use of
alcohol and other drugs is
crucial, especially since
the teenage brain is
still developing and is
more vulnerable to
their harmful effects.
By encouraging
open conversations,
correcting
misinformation, and
providing accurate
information, parents
can help their teenagers
make informed decisions
about cannabis. This not
only protects the wellbeing
of young people but
also leads to a healthier, more
knowledgeable generation ready to
face the complex and evolving landscape
of cannabis and other drugs.
INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL PARENT SPRING 2024 | 65