Are you concerned your teenager or young adult is using marijuana? Below you will find 38 warning signs and symptoms for marijuana use. Marijuana use is very controversial across the nation, but something that cannot be denied, is the detrimental effect it has on young adults. It has been proven that young adults/teenagers who use marijuana have more problems with memory, attention and learning. They also struggle with their school performance, have an increased risk of problematic behaviors, and are more likely to suffer from depression and or anxiety.
Physical signs of pot smoking or marijuana use:
- red bloodshot eyes, squinting or half closed eyes
- constant, mucus-filled cough
- rapid heartbeat
- dry mouth (cotton mouth)
- poor coordination
- slow reaction time
Behaviors that may indicate marijuana use or marijuana addiction:
- Difficulty problem solving or keeping thoughts together
- Poor memory, particularly short term or things recently occurring
- Extreme or unusual hunger or increased eating (especially snacks and sweets), usually called the munchies
- Acting silly or in a giggly manner
- Acting slow, lethargic, dazed or confused
- Lack of motivation, enthusiasm
- Loses train of thought, rambling, disjointed in a conversation
- Paranoia
Finding these items on your teen, in their room or with their belongings, likely indicates frequent marijuana use:
- Visine or other products for red eyes
- Cigarette Rolling Papers
- Bongs
- Metal clips or small clamps
- Pipes
- Cigars
- Cans with holes cut on side
- Small baggies
- Dried plant residue, looking like dried oregano
- Frequent use of incense, air freshener, cologne or perfume
- Small burn marks on finger tips (particularly thumb and index or middle finger), lips
- Posters, stickers, buttons, pins, clothing or other items with marijuana leaves, or mentioning marijuana or 420
- Increased use of mouthwash, mints or gum
- Smelling like marijuana or a skunk-like smell on your teen, in their bedroom, on their clothes
- Signs that a towel has been put under the door (to stop smoke and smells from getting out)
- Hemp Items
Changes in your teen that may indicate marijuana use:
- Sudden change in friends
- Talking in code or odd communication with their friends
- Interest in taking short walks, going outside for short periods of time
- Sudden drop in education or job performance
- Loss of interest in once enjoyed activities, pursuits, hobbies
- Absences from school or work
- Frequent requests for money with nothing tangible to show
- Lost valuables or semi-valuable items from the house
If you observe several of these warning signs, it is likely that your child is using marijuana. Finding any of the paraphernalia items, such as bongs, pipes, rolling papers, etc. is a very good indication that he/she is smoking pot frequently.
Marijuana can sometimes have lasting effects on young adults because a young adults brain does not fully develop until age 26. If you are concerned about your teens use of marijuana or other drugs, it is important to get help immediately. Brief interventions are very beneficial resources along with individual counseling and therapy when necessary.
New Hope Recovery Center treats chemical dependency for adults 18 years of age or older, however if you know a teen that is struggling with drugs or alcohol, please call New Hope Recovery Center at 773-883-3916 or contact us via email at [email protected] and we can direct you to the proper resources that can be of help for teens or adolescents.
Written by: New Hope Recovery Center
