 Cannabis has a reputation for being harmless and is now widely socially acceptable. In many ways, it is less harmful than other substances - it isn’t strongly linked to cancer like alcohol, and the risk of fatal overdose isn’t present in the same way it is with alcohol, illicit substances, or prescription drug misuse. But “harmless” depends on how we define harm. Physical harm is only one part of the picture. Cannabis can also have mental, emotional, and functional impacts, affecting memory, motivation, mood regulation, and stress tolerance. Since legalization in many states, adult cannabis use has increased, along with daily and near-daily use. In Washington State, about 58% of adults report lifetime cannabis use, and around 30% report use in the past month. Among young adults (18–25), frequent use has risen since legalization began in WA in 2014. Teen use patterns are more mixed, but perceived risk of cannabis has declined, meaning many teens now see cannabis as less harmful than in previous generations. The concern is that when perceived risk is lower, teens may be more likely to try cannabis. The age of first use matters. The younger someone is when they first use any substance, the higher their likelihood of developing substance use disorders later in life, in part because substance use during brain development can have a greater and longer-lasting impact. Some risks of daily cannabis use are obvious: making unsafe decisions, impaired driving, or lung damage from regular smoking. Others are less visible. Frequent, high-potency THC use is associated with changes in attention, memory, and motivation. In some cases, it can also increase the risk of cannabis-induced psychosis in vulnerable individuals, especially when heavy use begins in adolescence.  Cannabis today is far more potent than it was decades ago. In the 1990s, cannabis averaged about 4% THC. Today, many products contain 20–30% THC or more, with concentrates and vape oils reaching even higher levels. Higher potency doesn’t just mean a stronger high, it also has stronger effects on the brain. Modern forms like dab pens, concentrates, and edibles also make it easier to consume more THC more quickly, increasing the chance of overuse and dependence. While any level of cannabis use among youth is concerning because their brains are still developing, occasional use among adults (such as a few puffs socially or an edible on the weekend) generally carries minimal long-term risk for most people. Daily or near-daily use, on the other hand, is linked to measurable changes in brain function. Feeling relaxed occasionally is very different from chronically narrowing emotional range. When emotions are consistently muted, it becomes harder to process stress, connect with others, and feel motivated without the substance. THC affects the brain’s endocannabinoid system, which helps regulate mood, stress, memory, and reward. With regular use, the brain adapts to the presence of THC - receptors become less responsive, and reward pathways can become dampened. For young people whose brains are still developing, these changes can have more noticeable consequences. Difficulties with memory and attention can affect academic performance, making it harder to retain information, focus in class, and complete tasks that require sustained attention. Regular use during adolescence is also associated with disrupted development of executive functioning skills, including planning, impulse control, decision-making, and emotional regulation. Some research has also linked heavy, persistent cannabis use beginning in adolescence with measurable declines in overall cognitive functioning, including IQ.  Despite common myths, cannabis addiction is real. Cannabis Use Disorder is a recognized diagnosis describing cannabis use that interferes with daily functioning or causes distress. Not everyone who uses cannabis becomes addicted, but many develop dependence. This conversation is especially important for parents, caregivers, and young people because the age of first use matters. The earlier someone begins using substances - including cannabis - the higher their risk of developing substance use disorder later in life. The adolescent brain is still developing and is more vulnerable to frequent, high-potency THC. At the same time, cannabis has become increasingly normalized. Legalization and commercialization often emphasize benefits while minimizing risks. Honest, balanced conversations help young people (and adults) make informed choices. What matters most is talking about cannabis honestly and early, so young people and adults alike can make informed choices before patterns become harder to change. If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, click here for resources. By Erica Vogt, ITC Program Coordinator
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