Cannabis use under 25
Your brain is pretty awesome—it helps you navigate life, solve problems and achieve your goals. But did you know it’s still developing until you’re 25? Cannabis use during this critical time can change the way your brain grows. Let’s dive into what that means and how to stay on track.
What you need to know
Research has shown that your brain is still developing until about the age of 25. That means that using cannabis before then can change the way your brain develops. Specifically, the front of your brain—the area that controls your judgment and personal awareness—is the last part to fully mature.
You only get one brain, and one chance to develop it – so that means frequent cannabis consumption under 25 is risky. Delaying cannabis use until you're over the age of 25 can lower your risk of harmful health effects.
Let’s break down how cannabis affects you, bust some common myths and provide tips for safer use (or even quitting).
How cannabis affects your brain and body
Your brain is still growing until age 25, so using cannabis interferes with its development. Here are some things that could be affected with cannabis use:
Cannabis use can make it harder to focus, learn and remember things. The younger you are when you start, the greater the risk of long-term effects.
Want to learn more? Check out the articles and research below:
Regular cannabis use (using as part of your daily routine, or you feel like you need cannabis to get through the day) under 25 has been linked to lower chances of finishing school and achieving career goals. Research is already showing a strong link between frequent use and higher chances of harmful effects on mental health and disordered use (addiction).
If you or your family have a history of mental health issues, cannabis can amplify or unlock negative effects—such as psychosis, so it is highly recommended not to use. Also, if you think you might be pregnant you should not use. The research is showing that the effect on developing babies is can cause developmental changes.
Want to learn more? Check out the articles and research below:
Does vaping reduce the risks?
The short answer is no because vaping cannabis comes with its own risks. These risks include increased chances of negative effects because of the high potency THC, vaping users often have higher tolerance levels and will need stronger products to achieve desired effects and consuming ingredients that haven’t been researched for long-term effects on lung health and device malfunctions. The effects of vaping are unknown, and research is ongoing. Visit our vaping page to learn more.
Myths associated with cannabis use
There’s a lot of misinformation out there about cannabis. Here are some common myths, and the reality behind them:
Myth: “Cannabis helps me relax and feel less anxious.”
Reality: For some people, cannabis can actually increase anxiety and can even lead to panic attacks. It can also cause paranoia, especially with higher THC products.
Myth: “It’s harmless because it’s natural.”
Reality: Just because something is natural doesn’t mean it’s risk-free. Cannabis can still have negative effects on your brain, lungs and overall health, especially when used before 25.
Myth: “Cannabis isn’t addictive, so I have nothing to worry about.”
Reality: Wrong. This is news to many people. Research shows the earlier you start using and the frequency in which you use could lead to addiction or what is referred to as Cannabis Use Disorder (CUD).
Myth: “I can drive fine or even better when I’ve used cannabis.”
Reality: Cannabis can significantly impair our judgement, motor coordination and reaction times. Studies have found a direct relationship between the concentration of cannabis (THC) in the blood and driving ability. The risk of being involved in an accident doubles after cannabis use.
Accidents that involved drivers with THC in their bloodstream, especially higher levels, are three to seven times more likely to be responsible for the accident than drivers who had not used drugs or alcohol.
The risk associated with cannabis in combination with alcohol appears to be greater than that for either drug by itself.
How to moderate your use or even stop using
Whether you’re trying to cut back or quit entirely, there are small steps you can take to reach your goal. Here are just a few:
The higher the THC the higher the risk. THC results in your brain being over-stimulated, interrupting normal function. Regularly using cannabis with elevated levels of THC (more than 10 mg or 20%) can increase your risk for mental health problems like suicidal thoughts and negative mental health effects. Reducing the amount of cannabis you use, or stopping altogether, can lower your risk.
If you choose to use, consider THC products with less than 20% THC and avoid high-strength products like vapes, concentrates, or shatter. Choose products with higher CBD to minimize your risks.
Choose to use less often. If you use daily, try to skip a couple days. If you use weekly, try to hold off an extra week. Your brain and pocketbook will thank you!
Smoking and vaping will hurt your lungs. Consider choosing edibles or drinkables instead, and always go slow. Edible effects can take longer to kick in and last longer than inhaling, but licensed producers are quickly developing edibles and drinkables that will provide consumers with effects as soon as 15 minutes. It’s important to make sure you understand what type of ingestible product you are using.
Check out our and the Lower-Risk Cannabis Use Guidelines for more information.
Real talk: Cannabis and driving don’t mix
Driving while under the influence of cannabis is illegal. Even if it doesn’t seem like no big deal, studies show that the effects on driving skills last longer than the immediate high. Basically, even if you don’t feel high anymore, your mind is still influenced by the THC— these effects contribute to lowered reaction times, focus and coordination.
It’s ok not to use
PS: most people aren’t. Choosing not to use cannabis is totally valid—and you’re not alone despite the social hype. Statistics Canada reports high percentages of non-users in every age group, so, don’t feel pressured to try it just because others have. Your brain and body will thank you for delaying that first experience or skipping it altogether.
Remember: Cannabis use, especially under 25, comes with risks to your brain, body and future, so it’s best not to use. Remember the lower-risk use guidelines. And if you want to chat or need more info, reach out!