Six Things You Need to Know About Marijuana

Marijuana refers to the dried leaves, flowers, stems, and seeds from the Cannabis sativa or Cannabis indica plant. The plant contains the mind-altering chemical THC and other
similar compounds. 

Marijuana is the most commonly used illicit drug in the United States. Its use is widespread
among young people. In 2015, more than 11 million young adults ages 18 to 25 used marijuana
in the past year. The number of young people who believe regular marijuana use is risky is
decreasing.

Legalization of marijuana for medical use or adult recreational use in a growing number of states may affect these views. When a person smokes marijuana, THC quickly passes from the lungs into the bloodstream. The blood carries the chemical to the brain and other organs throughout the body.

This is where Whitman County Public Health (WCPH) steps in. Here is what WCPH says YOU
need to know about marijuana:

1. It is Illegal to use marijuana in view of the general public
2. Recreational use is unsafe and illegal for anyone under 21
3. Smoking marijuana has negative and dangerous long- and short-term effects on the brain
4. Marijuana over activates parts of the brain that contain the highest number of these receptors. This causes the "high" that people feel. Other effects include altered senses, changes in mood, impaired body movement, difficulty thinking and problem solving, impaired memory.
5. Approximately 10 percent of people who use marijuana may develop what is called a marijuana use disorder—problems with their health, school, friendships, family or other conflicts in their life
   
6. People who use marijuana may feel a mild withdrawal when they stop using the drug, but might not recognize their symptoms as drug withdrawal. These symptoms may include irritability, sleeplessness, lack of appetite, anxiety and drug cravings.