Smoking marijuana as a teen can really affect your brain. Since twenty-three states have legalized the drug, people thought more and more teens would start to smoke. For a matter of fact, the use among teens has gone down. However, the perception of harmful effects has gone up.

Studies show a decline in IQ from 8-10 points for high school students who have smoked pot according to the American Psychological Association. These teens have a problem with situational memory. The use of it has a long term effect on the adolescent brain. Although the legalization is only for people over the age of 21, or for medical purposes, teens somehow get this drug.

“From what I see, teens receive their drugs from the so-called “Black Market” or from family and friends,” said CK Drug Counselor Jon Daley. Kids that smoke before the age of 21 are 10 times more likely to become addicted, develop a mental illness, develop a smaller brain, and are three times more likely to have suicidal thoughts. For boys who smoke before 21, hormones and testosterone can decrease.

“It takes up your money and is a waste of money because it affects your health,” said senior Victor Sosa.