As the landscape of substance use evolves, it's vital for parents and guardians to stay informed about the latest trends and their potential impacts on youth. The Tobacco Free York County Coalition is dedicated to providing the community with up-to-date information and resources to help keep our young people safe. Vaping, once marketed as a safer alternative to smoking, has quickly become a popular method for consuming not just nicotine but also cannabis derivatives such as THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol). These substances, often found in e-liquids, oils, and cartridges, can have significant health implications, particularly for adolescents. When cannabis derivatives are added to the mix, the risks can compound.
Cannabis contains various compounds, the most well-known being THC and CBD. THC is the psychoactive component that causes a "high," while CBD is non-psychoactive and often touted for its potential therapeutic benefits. However, both substances can have adverse effects, particularly when vaped. THC, when consumed in high doses, can lead to impaired memory, altered judgment, and, in some cases, psychosis. Regular use during adolescence can impact brain development. CBD, while generally considered safe, long-term effects that are not well understood. It can also interact with other medications and substances.
Combining cannabis derivatives with nicotine in vaping products can lead to unpredictable effects and heightened health risks. This combination can increase addiction risk since using nicotine and THC together can enhance the addictive properties of both substances. It can also amplify adverse effects as the combined effects on the cardiovascular and respiratory systems can be more severe than using either substance alone, and impact mental health by exacerbating anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions.
Join the Conversation: Rock Hill Schools Parent Academy Presentation. We invite all parents and guardians to join us! This presentation will provide valuable insights into the latest research on vaping and cannabis derivatives, share practical tips for discussing these topics with your children, and offer resources for support and intervention. Keeping our youth safe requires a collective effort. By staying informed and engaged, we can help prevent the potential harms associated with vaping and cannabis use. We encourage you to attend the Parent Academy presentation and to reach out to the Tobacco Free York County Coalition for more information and resources. We look forward to seeing you there!
Event Details
Date: June 20th
Time: 6 PM
Location: Rock Hill Schools Parent Academy (https://www.rock-hill.k12.sc.us/ParentAcademy)