Access to both medical and recreational-grade marijuana is becoming more mainstream than ever before. So how do you know if someone is high?
As legal changes take effect, marijuana has become more accessible to many, especially in teenagers.
While marijuana is proven to offer various health benefits, inappropriate use should be discouraged. Of course, teens are drawn to the possible psychoactive effects that they could experience, and the thrill of using it without being caught.
As one of the most commonly used substances among the younger generation, many flock to buy marijuana seeds for beginners. Home cultivation is a common choice for many.
Do you suspect that your son is dabbing? Join us as we discuss this popular substance and how to find out if your teenager is using drugs.
What Is Weed?
Weed originated in central Asia as herbal medicine in 500 BC before being introduced to Africa, Europe, and the Americas. During this time, marijuana contained low levels of THC, the compound producing psychoactive effects.
While weed may resemble tobacco, there’s certainly a notable difference. The marijuana plant is also more versatile as all parts of the plant can be used.
A most common choice among teens is to crumble and roll weed into joints or use a bong or pipe to smoke it. Others enjoy a sweet treat or beverage infused with cannabis. Basically, they’ve become innovative in learning how to smoke weed without getting caught.
How to Know if Your Kid is Using Weed
Although the effects of marijuana use vary from person to person, you might be wondering how to know if someone is high. These symptoms are a good indicator that your son or daughter has recently used weed:
- Red and bloodshot eyes
- Giddiness or exhaustion
- Anxiety or paranoia
- Excessive hunger known as the “munchies”
What about long-term indicators? If your teen has been consuming weed for a while, you may see the following changes:
Emotional State Changes
Each person has a different reaction to the various marijuana strains. In some cases, they may impact the user’s daily attitude. Sudden mood swings, lethargy, and general exhaustion are key indicators of long-term weed use.
These changes may impact your teen’s ability to concentrate at school, their job, and at home. A drastic change in attitude or performance is a clear sign that your son is on drugs.
Paraphernalia
A significant indicator for how to tell if your kid is on drugs is in the paraphernalia. Some special tools needed for their cannabis experience include:
- Bongs
- Blunts or joints (wrapped like a cigarette)
- Concealed storage holders
- Pipes
- Grinders
- Vapes
- Dab rigs
Knowing what these items look like will help you identify them around the house.
Hiding the Smell
Camouflaging the odor is a point to consider as they learn how to smoke weed without getting caught. No matter the strain, marijuana has a very distinct aroma. One clear indicator is that your teen has developed a sudden liking for incense or air fresheners. Teens who use weed, particularly at home, get creative to cover up the smell.
Avoiding Drug Tests
Another surefire sign for how to know if someone is high is if they avoid taking a drug test. A simple home testing kit can confirm your suspicions, and most include marijuana testing.
If your teen is using weed, they’ll know how long it stays in their system and when it’s safe to take a test. They won’t voluntarily submit to a drug test if they know or fear they’ll fail it.
Who is more likely to use drugs?
Teens who are involved with sporting activities, especially at a varsity level, are less likely to use drugs as they undergo regular testing. Additionally, teens looking for after-school or summer employment also find that some employers require regular testing.
Homeschooled teens not only use less weed, they often disapprove of it entirely as they’re less likely to encounter:
- Indoctrination
- Peer pressure
- Exposure to popular consumer culture
If your teen is a regular weed user, they may avoid participating in an extracurricular activity to get out of a drug test.
Awareness is key
While some teens are thrilled by the idea of being caught doing something they shouldn’t, others may not be interested in using cannabis. It all comes down to how you communicate with your child.
Open and honest communication about the substance and its potential effects make a huge difference. Especially if you live in a state that prohibits underage cannabis usage.
Of course, there are some states with more lenient regulations around marijuana. Or maybe you need it for medicinal use? If this is the case, be sure to emphasize how crucial it is to buy the highest quality seeds.
Jennifer Gallagher
