Adolescents prefer marijuana to alcohol as their preference for substance use is gradually shifting.
Cannabis: The Preferred Debut Drug Among Icelandic Teens
In Iceland, cannabis supplants alcohol as the go-to substance for many teens, as per Runa Agutsdottir, a seasoned drug and alcohol counselor at Foreldrahus, a support center tailored for families grappling with substance abuse. Agutsdottir highlights the commonality of marijuana use among youngsters, often before legal age, and the insufficient understanding of its potential perils.
"Weed reigns supreme," Agutsdottir asserted in a recent interview, underscoring the widespread use. "It's the first, second, and third most consumed substance among teens."
Unfortunately, the general populace frequently trivialize cannabis, viewing it as innocuous compared to substances like amphetamines. However, Agutsdottir cautions that early use of marijuana could incite addiction and developmental pitfalls, particularly when use commences before age 16.
"Parents often disregard weed's hazards for teenagers," she said. "Research demonstrates that the younger someone starts, the more susceptible they become to addiction."
Yet, Agutsdottir emphasizes hope. Plenty of teens reliant on cannabis can break free with early intervention, and most do not progress to heavier drug use.
The "Lost Years"
Agutsdottir warns of a critical phase—ages 14 to 18—often called the "lost years." During this period, regular drug use can derail education, delay social development, and leave youngsters struggling to reconnect with peers.
"They may stop using eventually, but by then, they've dropped out of school, lagged behind socially, and missed out on key life experiences," she cautioned.
Agutsdottir advocates increased awareness and collaboration among parents and schools, advocating for early detection and intervention to forestall lasting harm.
Enrichment InsightWhile there is limited research on the long-term effects of early marijuana use among Icelandic teenagers, broader studies indicate potential risks such as developing substance use disorders and cognitive, mental health, and social issues. Iceland, however, highlights a growing awareness of youth substance use, with community-based prevention strategies emphasized by the Icelandic Prevention Model. Despite a lack of specific data on Icelandic teenagers, it is reasonable to infer that long-term effects could include increased risks of addiction, cognitive impairments, and mental health issues, similar to those observed in other populations.
"Agutsdottir suggests that the period from ages 14 to 18, often referred to as the 'lost years,' could be critical, as regular marijuana use during this time might lead to developmental setbacks and impact mental health."
"Furthermore, Agutsdottir encourages collaboration between parents, schools, and health-and-wellness practitioners to increase awareness about the potential risks associated with the early use of marijuana, particularly in relation to mental-health issues among Icelandic teenagers."
