Edibles are increasingly popular among teens. Because edibles are readily available, especially in states with few marijuana restrictions, they are easy for teens to access. While edibles may seem relatively harmless, fun, and, sometimes, legal, they can harm a teen’s overall health. Edibles can lead to other substance use and drug abuse in many cases. A drug abuse treatment program is the safest, most effective way to help teens struggling with addiction to edibles or other substances.
If your teen needs drug abuse treatment in North Carolina, call Foothills at Red Oak Recovery to learn more about our programs for adolescent boys. Reach our staff now at 866.300.5275 for more information on the dangers of edibles and how our program can help your teen thrive,
What Are Edibles?
Some parents may remember trying or even baking their first edibles. Today, however, pre-made edibles are readily available. CBD edibles are legal across the United States, while THC edibles are only legal in some states. CBD edibles can make a person sleepy, reduce pain, and calm anxiety. THC edibles contain the chemical compound in cannabis that makes a person high through cookies, brownies, butter, and gummies. Today, gummies, chocolates, and other candies are increasingly popular types of edibles. Consuming an edible can cause:
- Tremors
- Increased heartbeat
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Confusion
- Sleepiness
- Lack of concentration
Edibles can be more potent than smoking or vaping. Teens may also prefer edibles over vape pens or traditional blunts. Unfortunately, while edibles may be tasty, they can have much higher levels of THC and CBD. This makes it difficult to know how much cannabis a person is ingesting and how it will affect them. Most times, because edibles are tasty treats, a person may want to consume more edibles because they taste good. This can use cannabis overdose.
Today, there is a rise in the popularity of Delta 8 edibles. Delta 8 is a synthetic THC made in labs. It is not regulated and can cause more intense highs, hallucinations, delusions, and reckless behavior.
Dangers of Edibles for Teens
Edibles may seem fun and rather harmless. Unfortunately, cannabis edibles can lead to other kinds of edibles and other drugs. While there are still debates over marijuana addiction, many teens may use edibles to self-soothe for mood disorders, emotional pain, and unresolved trauma. This self-soothing often leads to other substance abuse and addiction. Occasional edible use is common among teens and many adults, especially in states with easy access to legal edibles.
Because the cannabis industry is still under-regulated, it’s hard to know what is in an edible or how safe it is. While a gummy may seem harmless, it can contain heavy metals and toxins. It can also cause behaviors that may make a teen a danger to themselves or others.
Reducing the Risk of Edibles with Substance Abuse Treatment
Substance abuse treatment is the best way to reduce the risk of edibles. For many teens, it’s hard to admit to parents, friends, and loved ones they are struggling with mental health, prolonged stress, or unresolved trauma. In most cases, these stressors lead to substance abuse, including edible consumption. If edibles adversely affect your teen’s life, it’s time to get help.
Start Treatment for Your Teen at Foothills at Red Oak Recovery Today
The staff at Foothills at Red Oak Recovery is here to help you and a young man in your life struggling with edibles. Our beautiful North Carolina treatment center helps adolescent boys from all walks of life detox and recover from edibles and other substances. Foothills at Red Oak Recovery focuses on holistic healing from drug, alcohol, and process addictions alongside co-occurring disorders. With a comprehensive family therapy program and equine-assisted and experiential therapy options, your teen can disconnect from their busy lives and reconnect with themselves during treatment. Don’t let edibles take over your teen’s life. Call Foothills at Red Oak Recovery today to learn more about our programs at 866.300.5275.