Study shows an increase in marijuana use in teens

According to a recent survey by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), drug use in teens has increased since 2008, reports Mineola American.

Adolescents using marijuana has shown the biggest jump compared to other illicit drugs, according to the survey. Furthermore, the percentage of teens who perceive a great risk of harm associated with the drug decreased to 49.3 percent in 2009.

The survey shows that 31.3 percent of teens were less likely to use marijuana because of the perceived strong parental disapproval they would receive.

According to the National Institute of Health, prolonged use of marijuana can lead to the development of psychosis, particularly in those who have a genetic vulnerability to the disease. Experts say that consuming alcohol or using marijuana often leads to the abuse of other illicit drugs, such as heroin or prescription drugs like OxyContin and Vicodin.

Boarding schools are designed to help promote healthy lifestyle choices for youths and adolescents.

According to the Office of National Drug Control Policy, 30 percent of teens reported engaging in illicit drug use.