A recent symposium held at Clemson University’s Badrin Center focused on the escalating issues surrounding marijuana use, particularly among youth. The event, organized by behavioral health experts, highlighted alarming trends in the potency of marijuana products available today.

Participants noted that THC concentrations have surged dramatically, with current products reaching levels as high as 99%, compared to less than 10% in the 1970s and 1980s. This increase in potency has raised concerns about the mental health implications for users, especially those aged 16 to 26, who are reportedly experiencing early onset mental health issues and psychosis linked to chronic marijuana use.

The symposium also featured insights from a major with the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED), who discussed the ongoing debate over medical marijuana in Colombia. He emphasized that misinformation is prevalent in discussions about marijuana legalization, warning that states allowing medical marijuana often see a flood of additional products that can exacerbate public health issues.

Furthermore, the symposium addressed troubling statistics regarding suicide rates among veterans using high-potency marijuana products, contradicting claims that these substances are beneficial for mental health. Experts are calling for increased public awareness and education on the risks associated with high-concentration THC products, urging a reevaluation of their perceived benefits.

The discussions at the symposium underscore the urgent need for informed dialogue about marijuana use and its potential consequences on mental health and public safety.