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The term “marijuana” has been used historically to promote negative stereotypes and sentiments towards Hispanic and Latine/x communities. To avoid perpetuating these, we use the term “cannabis” to refer to hemp, “marijuana,” or any other substance derived from the flowering tops of the hemp plant. We acknowledge that “marijuana” is a commonly used term in policies, laws, and regulations. 

The use of cannabis during the teen years may result in damage to a teen’s rapidly developing brain, and may result in impaired cognitive function (CDC).

According to the 2023 Healthy Kids Colorado Survey, by the time they are seniors in high school, 21.8% of Jefferson County students report they have used cannabis in the past 30 days. Do not assume your teen does or does not use cannabis.  

What is the problem with teens using cannabis?

• Cannabis is not always addictive, but it can be. About 3 in 10 people who use cannabis have cannabis use disorder. The risk of developing cannabis use disorder is stronger in people who start using cannabis during adolescence (CDC). 
• Some negative effects of teen cannabis use may include difficulty thinking and problem-solving, problems with memory and learning, reduced coordination, difficulty maintaining attention, and problems with school and social life (CDC). 

In Jefferson County, teens report that most cannabis is purchased from someone old enough to buy or grow it, or that it is taken without permission from an adult who lives with them (YTH 2024).

The Majority of Teens Know a Peer that Uses Cannabis

Of participants (aged 11 - 20) who attended the 2025 Youth Town Hall, 60% said they knew a peer who uses cannabis. 

Communicate to your teen that seeking help for substance use is a sign of strength. If you, or your teen, is looking for support, visit Jefferson Center’s website or give them a call at 303-425-0300.

Video: Marijuana and the Young Brain

Jodi Gilman, PhD, is the director of neuroscience at the Center for Addiction Medicine. Her research examines how marijuana affects the teen brain. Her team's research has shown that the level of memory decline from marijuana is dependent on the age at which a young person begins using. She notes that this is a matter of public health concern as marijuana use has been shown to affect learning and has been strongly linked to the development of psychotic disorder.

Video is two minutes and fifty five seconds long (2:55).

Open Ended Questions About Cannabis

How to Start a Conversation About Cannabis

Are you being realistic? Assume your teen has been exposed to cannabis and approach conversations with that assumption.

First, find an opening.

When you see an ad for cannabis or go past a dispensary (cannabis store), use it as an opportunity to ask questions.​

Ask a direct question that can't be answered with a simple "yes" or "no."

For example:

• What do you think about cannabis messing with teens’ brain development?
• How do you handle it when (or if) you see cannabis being used by teens your age?
• More than 65% of high schoolers in Jefferson County think it is wrong or very wrong for teens to use cannabis. Why do you think they believe that? 
• Why do you think people use cannabis? 
• Only 14.1% of Jefferson County High Schoolers use cannabis; but almost half of Jefferson County students thought that most youth in their grade use cannabis. Why are teens getting that wrong? 
• I read that 3 in 10 people who use cannabis develop cannabis use disorder. Why do you think people do not know about that statistic?

The best way to show your teen you care?

Be there.

Have a talk with your teen.

Learn more at https://jeffcoctc.care/twelve-talks/cannabis/