THC and the Brain
What does THC stand for?
Tetrahydrocannabinol.
Marijuana is classified as what type of drug?
A depressant
Using marijuana can make it harder to do this safely on the road.
Drive
Long-term marijuana use can affect what mental skill used for remembering information?
Memory
True or False: Marijuana is completely safe because it is natural.
False
What is the main chemical in marijuana that causes a "high"?
THC
What does a depressant do to the central nervous system?
It slows it down.
Marijuana can affect a person's judgment. What does this mean?
It can make decision-making worse.
Long-term use may make learning and remembering information more difficult. True or False?
True
Can natural substances still be harmful?
Yes
THC affects brain functions such as memory, attention, and what other important skill?
Decision-making (or coordination).
Name one thing that may become slower after using marijuana.
Reaction time, thinking, or coordination.
Name two short-term effects of marijuana.
Any two: slower reaction time, poor coordination, anxiety, increased heart rate, impaired judgment, difficulty concentrating.
What is dependence?
When a person feels they need a drug and has difficulty stopping its use.
True or False: People can become dependent on marijuana.
True
What type of receptors in the brain does THC attach to?
Cannabinoid receptors.
True or False: Marijuana speeds up communication between the brain and body.
False.
What emotion can some people experience after using marijuana?
Anxiety or paranoia.
Name one long-term risk associated with marijuana use.
Memory problems, learning difficulties, dependence, or reduced motivation.
What is a common misconception about marijuana?
That it is completely safe or cannot be addictive.
Why can THC have a greater impact on teenagers than adults?
Because the teenage brain is still developing.
Explain why marijuana is considered a depressant.
Because it slows brain and nervous system activity, affecting reaction time, concentration, and coordination.
Why can marijuana increase the risk of accidents?
It impairs judgment, coordination, and reaction time.
Why are health experts concerned about regular marijuana use during the teenage years?
Because it may affect brain development, learning, and memory.
Why is it important to fact-check information about marijuana?
Because myths and misinformation can lead to unhealthy or unsafe choices.