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Study shows more teens using marijuana at a younger age

By Staff Writer

As drug abuse remains a concern across the U.S., new statistics show that more individuals are trying marijuana at a younger age. Marijuana contains tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), a psychoactive substance that can cause users to grow dependent on it over time. Substance abuse programs for youth can help individuals struggling with marijuana dependency quit the drug.

New information released by the National Survey on Drug Use and Health this week revealed that between 2008 and 2009, there was an increase in marijuana usage among individuals aged 12 or older. The number jumped to 7.3 percent - a 9 percent increase over the course of just one year. The median age of first-time marijuana users also fell to 17 years old.

"Marijuana use continues to increase among young people largely because it is sold in an uncontrolled, unregulated criminal market by drug dealers who are perfectly happy to sell to minors," Marijuana Policy Project representative Steve Fox told CNN.

Marijuana dependency can do harm to the mind and body over time. The drug can also negatively affect individuals' everyday lives as well as those of their loved ones. People dependent on marijuana can seek assistance at substance abuse treatment centers to take a step in the right direction and kick the habit.