Cannabis Usage on the Rise: Are Teens Increasing Consumption?

Cannabis use has become a central topic of concern as more U.S. states legalize its medical and recreational use. With around 200 million people using cannabis worldwide, the question of who is driving this surge in consumption has sparked widespread interest. A recent study¹ using data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health offers valuable insights into shifting cannabis consumption patterns across various demographics. Drawing from nearly 55,000 respondents annually, with some limitations in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the study reveals notable trends. While adult usage rates are rising, there is an unexpected pattern among teens that challenges common assumptions. Let’s explore these findings and the factors influencing cannabis use.

Survey Synopsis: Key Findings

The survey, spanning 2013 to 2022, presents a comprehensive analysis of cannabis usage trends. Here are some of the standout findings:

• Overall Increase in Cannabis Use: Between 2013 and 2022, cannabis use among adults steadily increased. In 2013, 7.59% of the population reported using cannabis in the past 30 days. By 2021–2022, that number had risen to 15.11%. This doubling of use over the past decade signifies the broader societal shift towards acceptance of cannabis, largely driven by changes in legal status across many states.
• Stable Cannabis Use Among Youth: Contrary to what some may expect, cannabis use among youth (ages 12–17) remained relatively consistent during the survey period. While adult usage rates increased significantly, the survey found that youth consumption did not experience a comparable surge. This stability suggests that while cannabis is more widely available, teens are not the primary group fueling the rise in consumption.
• High Prevalence in Multiracial and Low-SES Groups: Across all time points, cannabis use was disproportionately higher among multiracial individuals and those with lower socioeconomic status (SES).
• Higher cannabis use among specific adult groups: From 2013 to 2022, adults aged 18–25, particularly males, non-Hispanic multiracial individuals, those with some college education, and lower income levels, demonstrated higher odds of cannabis use across all timeframes.
• Increase Across Gender and Ethnic Groups: From 2021–2022, the survey showed a notable increase in cannabis use among both male and female respondents. Additionally, the rise was observed among Hispanic, White, and higher-SES individuals, indicating a broadening of cannabis consumption beyond traditionally high-use groups.
• Age Group Trends: Adults aged 18–34 exhibited the highest rates of cannabis use, but the survey also found a significant rise in consumption among those aged 35–49. This shift reflects how cannabis is becoming more accepted and integrated into the lifestyles of older adults. This demographic may not have been as heavily involved in cannabis culture in previous decades.

Factors driving this rise in cannabis use:

• Legalization and Accessibility: The most significant factor influencing the rise in cannabis use is the growing number of states legalizing its use for either medical or recreational purposes. This widespread legalization has not only increased access but has also contributed to changing attitudes, making cannabis a more socially accepted option for adults. Many young adults who began using cannabis recreationally have simply aged into legal cannabis users, further driving up consumption rates.
• Perception of Safety and Health Benefits: As cannabis becomes more mainstream, perceptions about its safety and potential health benefits are shifting. Many adults are turning to cannabis as a natural alternative to traditional pharmaceuticals, using it to manage stress, anxiety, sleep issues, and chronic pain. The growing body of research surrounding cannabinoids like CBD and THC, combined with their relative accessibility, has contributed to a more favorable view of cannabis as part of a wellness routine.
• Changing Social Norms: The stigma surrounding cannabis has significantly diminished, especially among adults. Cannabis use is no longer viewed as a negative attribute but as a common recreational or therapeutic activity. The study’s findings of increased use among higher-SES groups and older adults underscore how cannabis is penetrating different social groups, making it more of a mainstream choice.
• Marketing and Product Diversity: The cannabis industry has evolved rapidly, with products now tailored to a wide range of consumers. From edibles to topicals, tinctures, and vaporizers, the variety of consumption methods has made cannabis more appealing to adults who may not have been interested in smoking. The modern cannabis industry’s ability to cater to specific consumer needs—whether for relaxation, creativity, or sleep—has broadened its appeal.

Why Teens Aren’t Using More

While cannabis use among adults is rising, alternatively, teen usage has remained relatively constant. Several factors may explain this:

• Increased Awareness of Risks: Campaigns targeting youth about the potential dangers of cannabis use, particularly on the developing brain, may be having an effect. Many teens today are more aware of the risks associated with cannabis use than in previous generations, which could be curbing experimentation.
• Parental Influence and Legal Barriers: With more adults using cannabis, many parents are likely having open conversations with their children about responsible use and setting clear boundaries. Additionally, while cannabis is legal for adults in many states, it remains illegal for those under 21, limiting teens’ access to regulated cannabis products.
• Shifts in Teen Interests: Surveys suggest that teens are more focused on digital experiences—spending time on social media, gaming, and engaging in virtual communities. This shift in interest could mean that fewer teens are experimenting with substances like cannabis.

As cannabis use continues to rise in the U.S., it is important to consider the various factors contributing to this growth. While legalization and cultural acceptance have fueled adult use, public health efforts may be helping to keep teen usage steady. Moving forward, research into the health implications of cannabis use, particularly among high-risk groups, will be crucial in developing effective harm-reduction strategies. The findings of this study emphasize the need for a nuanced approach to cannabis policy that accounts for education and harm reduction strategies to ensure responsible use among all age groups.

Study Reference:

^{1. Berman, P., Futoran, K., Lewitus, G. M., Mukha, D., Benami, M., Shlomi, T., & Meiri, D. (2023). A new ESI-LC/MS approach for comprehensive metabolic profiling of phytocannabinoids in cannabis. Cannabis Research Journal, 2(3), 123–135. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.dadr.2024.100253}