Marijuana Education in a Post-Legalization Society Presented on October 31, 2017

Transcription

1 Marijuana Education in a Post-Legalization Society Presented on October 31, 2017 by the Co-founder of the Marijuana Education Initiative Molly Lotz, LCSW Today we will be addressing adolescent perceptions of harm and the need for postlegalized marijuana specific education 1

2 After attending this session you will be able to: Discuss marijuana trends as they pertain to youth use. Explain the modalities and methods of youth marijuana consumption. Discuss the impact marijuana has on learning and the developing brain. Understand why the perception of risk is decreasing among adolescents. What are we seeing in Colorado? Legalization/increase in availability Decrease in the perception of harm 2

3 National Perception of Harm Source: Monitoring The Future National Survey Results on Drug Use, 2015 Overview The University of Michigan Institute for Social Research Student Reporting Students report the following regarding marijuana use vs. alcohol use: Marijuana is more readily available and easier to obtain than alcohol. Marijuana use is easier to disguise in school, at home, and in public. Marijuana produces a more favorable high than alcohol. Students report that marijuana is a healthier choice than alcohol. Students report believing that they are better drivers when under the influence of marijuana. 3

4 We must address the myths and misconceptions about adolescent marijuana use Marijuana use doesn t really affect me. 4

5 Neuroplasticity Neuroplasticity refers to the ability of the brain to change its structure and function. Not since birth has the brain had so much rapid growth and capacity for change as it does during adolescence. This growth and change begins during puberty and continues until early 20s. During this time the very important processes of pruning occurs. Synaptic Pruning Synaptic Pruning refers to the process by which extra neurons and synaptic connections are eliminated in order to increase the efficiency of neuronal transmissions. Lets think of the connections between cells like roadways. 5

6 Rapid growth of cell connections Pruning for efficiency 6

7 Development of the Prefrontal Cortex Developing Executive Function Working Memory Execution Reasoning Planning Flexibility Problem Solving 7

8 Cannabinoid Receptors Receptors 8

9 Anandamide vs. THC SPECT Scans 9

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11 The brain after one year of abstinence. Myth #1: Marijuana use doesn t really affect me. 11

12 It s fine because it s natural. THC Levels on the Rise 12

13 THC Concentrates (70 90% THC) Shatter Oil Wax Budder Dabbing Device 13

14 Vape Pens 14

15 Pipes MIPS (Marijuana Infused Products) 15

16 Myth #2: It s fine because it s natural. 16

17 It s not as bad as drinking or doing other drugs. 17

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19 Mental Health Impacts of Early Marijuana Use Depression Suicidal thoughts Schizophrenia 19

20 Myth #3: It s not as bad as drinking or doing other drugs. It s medicine. 20

21 THC and CBD The Medicinal Properties of CBD Antiemetic: Reduces nausea and vomiting Anticonvulsant: Suppresses seizure activity Antipsychotic: Combats psychosis disorders Anti-inflammatory: Combats inflammatory disorders Antioxidant: Combats neurodegenerative disorders Antitumoral/Anticancer : Combats tumor and cancer cells Anxiolytic/Antidepressant: Combats anxiety and depression disorders 21

22 CBD and the CB2 Receptors Myth 4: It s medicine. 22

23 It s not addictive. 23

24 What does marijuana addiction look like? A person cannot stop using even though it interferes with his or her daily life, including relationships, school, and career, and it may create legal problems. Social Mental Physical Symptoms of Withdrawal Irritability Mood and sleep difficulties Anger/irritation Decreased appetite Cravings to use Restlessness These symptoms tend to peak within the first week of quitting and subside to a more comfortable level within two weeks. 24

25 Symptoms of Withdrawal Irritability Mood and sleep difficulties Anger/irritation Decreased appetite Cravings to use Restlessness These symptoms tend to peak within the first week of quitting and subside to a more comfortable level within two weeks. Myth 5: It s not addictive. 25

26 It s fine because it s legal. Comment from a Colorado School Counselor I met with at least 5 students last year alone that have been showing significant signs of drug use or were caught and they all said they will not stop using weed on a daily basis. Their justification was it s fine because it s legal. If it s legal it s not as bad as what adults say about the risks. Rocky Mountain High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area 26

27 Current Legal Trends Kids younger than 18 years can obtain a medical card IF: they have two doctors signatures and their parents/guardians sign off Kids older than 18 years can obtain a medical card with one doctor s signature and no parent signature. Young adults 21 years and older can legally smoke marijuana recreationally. Myth 6: It s fine because it s legal. 27

28 Parental and Community Norms 28

29 Talking With Youth Be empathetic. The struggle is real for youth today. Today s adolescent faces far more stresses than previous generations, and they don't always have the maturity and life experience to understand the long-term impacts of their decisions. It takes a lot of courage to not just follow the crowd. Teach the facts. Empower youth with information. When adolescents know the facts about their own brain development and how recreational marijuana use can affect their brains, they can make informed decisions. Keep the conversation going. Continuous and open conversations ensure that adolescents have a clear understanding of expectations and boundaries. Reality-Based Education 29

30 Additional Resources 30