Why Do People Smoke Weed?

Published: May 15, 2018
Dear TeenHealthFX,
why do people smoke weed
Signed: Why Do People Smoke Weed?

Dear Why Do People Smoke Weed?,

For our readers who may be unaware, “weed” refers to marijuana. Other street names for the drug include, yet are not limited to: grass, herb, mary jane, pot, reefer and skunk.

  • Marijuana can be smoked in hand-rolled cigarettes, glass pipes, water pipes (bongs) or through a vaporizer. It can also be brewed in tea or baked in food.
  • Effects of marijuana begin almost immediately and may last from 1-3 hours. Marijuana may effect decision making, concentration, coordination and judgement and memory. Other risks may include: reduced school performance, reduced life satisfaction, impaired driving and use of other drugs.
  • Marijuana can be addictive. Daily marijuana users may continue to abuse the drug despite negative consequences in their life.
  • Some people are prescribed medical marijuana by a doctor.

 

People may smoke marijuana for a variety of reasons, including desire to enhance a situation, relieve stress or increase the effect of other drugs. Some teenagers report using marijuana due to peer pressure or belief that marijuana is harmless.

TeenHealthFX discourages the use of marijuana because of the possible ways it can harm young people. Marijuana may pose both short and long-lasting side effects that place adolescents at risk for possible danger and development of a substance abuse problem.

If you or someone you know if experiencing a marijuana addiction, seek help. For those living in New Jersey, you can contact the Addiction Hotlines of NJ at 1-800-238-2333. Outside of New Jersey you can contact the Crisis Call Center at 1-800-450-9530, or the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration at 1-800-662-4357.

FX recommends the following resources for additional information:

Signed: TeenHealthFX

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