Marijuana Use: Understand the Risks

By Jacob Bambenek – June 3, 2026 –

According to data collected in 2022 by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 30.7% of teens reported using cannabis at least once, and 6.3% reported daily use within the previous 30 days. For educators, parents, and other adults who work closely with young people, these statistics reflect a growing concern. As more states legalize cannabis for medicinal and recreational purposes, its use is likely to become increasingly common, including among adolescents.

Although many people view marijuana as a means of relieving stress or managing certain medical conditions, its effects and risks are more complex than they are often portrayed. While cannabis is increasingly being studied and used to help manage conditions such as chronic pain, research on its long-term effects continues to evolve. Evidence cited by the CDC has linked cannabis use to a variety of potential adverse outcomes, including impaired cognitive functioning and an increased risk of mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression.

Cannabis is not generally considered as physically addictive as some other substances, but regular use can still lead to dependence. In fact, a study published in JAMA (Journal of the American Medical Association) Psychiatry found that approximately three in ten people who use marijuana develop cannabis use disorder. Given these risks, it is important to approach discussions about cannabis with a balanced understanding of both its potential benefits and potential harms.

Whether it is a family member, student, friend, or neighbor, chances are you know at least one teenager who has experimented with or regularly uses marijuana. This raises an important question: how can adults help address this growing concern? One of the most effective tools available is education. Providing adolescents with accurate, evidence-based information empowers them to make informed decisions about their health and well-being. Because cannabis research continues to evolve, misconceptions and conflicting messages are common, making thoughtful, fact-based discussions especially important.

Education alone, however, is not enough. Adolescents also need access to strong support systems. Whether they are struggling with marijuana use themselves or are affected by the substance use of family members or peers, young people benefit from guidance, encouragement, and access to resources. Increased awareness of the potential consequences of marijuana use can serve as a protective factor, while supportive relationships can help ensure that no young person faces these challenges alone.

Many adolescents turn to substances such as marijuana to cope with stress, anxiety, social pressures, or other personal challenges. To promote long-term well-being, it is important to help them develop healthier and more sustainable coping strategies. Counseling, mentorship programs, peer support groups, and other positive resources can provide constructive alternatives that foster resilience and encourage healthier lifestyle choices.

While support from family members, educators, and community members is important, some situations require more direct intervention. In cases involving cannabis use disorder or other significant substance-related challenges, professional treatment, counseling, and specialized support services may be necessary. The CDC provides educational resources that outline the potential risks associated with cannabis use, and organizations such as Marijuana Anonymous offer support and recovery programs for individuals seeking help. They can be reached at 1-800-766-6779 for information about local meetings and recovery resources.

As marijuana use becomes more common, open communication, accurate information, and accessible support systems will play a critical role in helping young people make healthy decisions and achieve long-term success.

Jacob Bambenek was a Youth First MSW Intern last semester at Harrison High School in Vanderburgh County. Youth First, Inc., is a nonprofit dedicated to strengthening youth and families. Youth First provides over 100 highly trained mental health professionals (primarily master’s level social workers), prevention programs, parent engagement coordinators, and bilingual support personnel to 130 schools across 14 Indiana counties. Over 55,000 youth and families each year are served by Youth First’s school-based social work and community programs that promote mental health, prevent substance misuse, and maximize student success. To learn more about Youth First, visit youthfirstinc.org or call 812-421-8336.