WHY IT MATTERS: If you are a parent or caregiver of a teenager, this research reinforces why cannabis medicine should only be considered for adolescents under direct physician supervision with clear medical necessity, and why recreational teen use carries real psychiatric risk. CLINICAL OVERVIEW: Adolescent cannabis use has consistently been associated with increased risk of psychiatric disorders in the clinical literature, and new large-scale data continues to reinforce this concern. The developing brain is particularly vulnerable to exogenous cannabinoids, and early exposure during critical neurodevelopmental windows may alter endocannabinoid signaling in ways that predispose teens to conditions like psychosis, anxiety disorders, and depression.
Kaiser Study Finds Higher Risk of Psychiatric Disorders in Teens Who Reported Cannabis Use
New research from Kaiser Permanente highlights psychiatric risks tied to teen cannabis use. Here’s what clinicians and families need to know: The adolescent brain is still developing its endocannabinoid system, making it more vulnerable to disruption ️ Association does not equal causation, but the signal is strong enough to warrant caution ️ Adult medical cannabis under supervision is a very different scenario than unsupervised teen use Age-appropriate protocols, dosing, and monitoring are critical for any adolescent cannabis consideration Open conversations between parents, teens, and clinicians are the best harm reduction tool we have Cannabis is powerful medicine. That’s exactly why it deserves respect, especially when young brains are involved. New Kaiser study links teen cannabis use to higher psychiatric risk. The adolescent brain is not the adult brain, and our approach to cannabinoid medicine must reflect that.