THC & The Brain
What does THC stand for?
Answer: Tetrahydrocannabinol.
Explanation: THC is the main psychoactive chemical in marijuana that causes the "high."
Marijuana is classified as what type of drug?
Answer: A depressant.
Explanation: Depressants slow down the activity of the central nervous system.
What is one short-term effect of marijuana use?
Answer: Impaired judgment.
Explanation: People may make risky decisions while under the influence.
Frequent marijuana use may affect what important mental skill?
Answer: Memory.
Explanation: Long-term use can make remembering information more difficult.
True or False: If marijuana is legal, it must be completely safe.
Answer: False.
Explanation: Legal substances can still have health risks.
Which part of the body does THC mainly affect?
Answer: The brain.
Explanation: THC changes how the brain processes information, memory, and emotions.
Does "depressant" mean it always makes people feel sad?
Answer: No.
Explanation: It means it slows brain and body functions, not necessarily mood.
Marijuana can make it harder to do what in school?
Answer: Concentrate or learn.
Explanation: THC affects attention and memory.
Can a person become dependent on marijuana?
Answer: Yes.
Explanation: Some people develop Cannabis Use Disorder and have trouble stopping.
Myth or Fact: Marijuana affects driving ability.
Answer: Fact.
Explanation: It slows reaction time and affects judgment.
Name one brain function that THC can affect.
Answer: Memory, learning, attention, decision-making, or coordination.
Explanation: THC interferes with communication between brain cells.
Name one way marijuana's depressant effects can impact daily activities.
Answer: Slower reaction time or poorer coordination.
Explanation: These effects can make activities like driving dangerous.
True or False: Marijuana can slow reaction time.
Answer: True.
Explanation: Slower reactions increase the risk of accidents.
Long-term marijuana use may negatively affect what part of a teen's life?
Answer: School performance.
Explanation: Memory and concentration problems can impact grades.
Myth or Fact: Medical marijuana and recreational marijuana are exactly the same thing.
Answer: Myth.
Explanation: Medical marijuana is used under medical supervision for specific health conditions.
Why are teens more vulnerable to THC's effects?
Answer: Their brains are still developing.
Explanation: The teenage brain continues developing into the mid-20s.
What body system is slowed by depressants?
Answer: The central nervous system.
Explanation: This system controls thinking, movement, and reactions.
Some users may experience what uncomfortable feelings after using marijuana?
Answer: Anxiety, panic, or confusion.
Explanation: Not everyone feels relaxed; some people have negative reactions.
Why are long-term effects especially concerning for teenagers?
Answer: Their brains are still developing.
Explanation: Regular THC exposure may affect brain development.
True or False: Everyone reacts to marijuana in the same way
Answer: False.
Explanation: Effects vary depending on the person, amount used, and THC strength.