Marijuana use among students has become increasingly prevalent, coinciding with the widespread legalization of cannabis and the perception that it is a harmless substance. However, numerous studies indicate a consistent correlation between regular marijuana use and poor academic performance.
Adverse Impacts of Cannabis Use
THC, the psychoactive component in cannabis, affects areas of the brain involved in memory, learning, attention and decision-making – especially for young adults whose brains are still developing. Students who regularly use marijuana may experience difficulties like these.
- Memory problems: Difficulty in retaining information can severely hinder your efforts to absorb new material and do well on exams.
- Reduced attention span: Marijuana use can decrease your ability to focus, making it challenging to concentrate during lectures.
- Impaired problem-solving abilities: THC can alter your judgment and decision-making abilities, leading to poorer performance in subjects requiring critical thinking and complex problem-solving.
- Absenteeism: Students under the influence of marijuana are more likely to skip classes, leading to gaps in learning and academic progression. Frequent absences can impact your grades and make you less likely to engage with your education.
Exacerbation of Mental Health Issues
While some students may rely on marijuana to alleviate stress, chronic use can exacerbate underlying mental health issues.
- Though many people believe cannabis is calming, it can increase feelings of anxiety and even lead to paranoia.
- The interaction between marijuana and brain chemistry can worsen or contribute to depression, particularly if you are genetically predisposed to mental health disorders.
- Some chronic marijuana users may lose motivation for typically rewarding activities, including their studies.
How PACE Academy Can Help
In many cases, mental and behavioral health issues derail formerly promising academic careers. Recognizing the challenges faced by young men struggling with marijuana use and its impact on education, PACE Academy offers a comprehensive program designed to help students recover from substance use while working to complete a high school or college diploma. The program features valuable structure, accountability and personal growth.
- Tailored academic plans: Each student at PACE Academy receives a customized academic plan that accommodates their learning pace and educational needs, ensuring they can complete their high school or college education.
- Supportive environment: PACE Academy keeps students accountable to their educational goals by fostering a supportive community and providing access to counselors and educators who understand the unique challenges posed by substance use.
- Integrated treatment approach: We prepare our clients to live healthy, happy and balanced lives with evidence-based methodologies, addressing the root cause of substance use and its symptomatic challenges.
- Life skills development: Beyond academics, we teach young adult men crucial life skills to improve their decision-making, communication, stress management and emotional resilience, equipping them to handle academic and personal challenges.
Marijuana’s adverse impact on school performance is cause for concern. Students and their families must understand these risks and seek appropriate help when substance use begins to interfere with education. PACE Recovery provides the resources necessary for young men to overcome these challenges, achieve their academic goals and build a robust foundation for their future. Contact our California men’s-only rehab today to verify your insurance coverage and learn about admission.
