Marijuana Facts

Alternative names for marijuana:

Pot, purple, weed, trees, blaze, bud, hays, etc.

The main ingredient:

THC (delta -9 Tetrahydrocannibol) acts as a stimulant to the brain. Once inhaled, the heart rate increases, as the bronchial passages relax and become enlarged while the blood vessels in the eyes expand, resulting in red eyes.

Why People May Use Marijuana

Medical purposes: cancer, glaucoma, multiple sclerosis, AIDS
Relax/Stress relief
Gain appetite
Social connection or making new connections
Coping mechanism
Enhanced/Alter perception and sensation
Boredom
Curiosity
Self-medicate for mental health issues

Impact of Use

Academic Impact

Decreased motivation
Poorer academic performance
Tardiness and/or absenteeism
Difficulty retaining information, forgetfulness
Poor memory

Social Impact

Relationship problems
Financial problems
Arguments with family & friends
Difficulty coping with stress
Potential for depression & anxiety
Next to alcohol, marijuana is a the second most common substance found in bodies of drivers involved in fatal accidents.

Physiological Impact

Changes in brain chemistry
Respiratory illnesses (chronic cough, phlegm, bronchitis, emphysema, and other lung infections)
Has been recently associated with testicular cancer especially with men who began using at an early age with high frequency
Compromised immune system
Can lead to unwanted or unprotected sex
You can show a positive drug test for quite a while (even months) after use
Can become addictive or lead to addiction

Academic and Legal Consequences

University Judicial sanctions leading to suspension or expulsion
Breaking your University Housing contract leading to possible eviction
Medical marijuana cards are not recognized on campus due to federal regulation
Marijuana is illegal, which may lead to misdemeanor or felony charges
Fines and possible imprisonment depending on the number of convictions and the amount in possession.
Possible loss of federally funded financial aid

Resources

Make an appointment with a CEASE counselor if you’d like to discuss the impact that marijuana is having on your life and explore possible alternatives at 338-2208.

Take eToke, an anonymous online marijuana assessment to learn more about your use.

Download 2004 NIDA report on Marijuana.