Effects of Marijuana vs Effects of Alcohol on Teenagers and Adults

Even though marijuana is illegal, we all know teenagers and adults are using it regularly and marijuana has been very easily accessible to these people. These individuals use cannabis for many different reasons. Some use it at social gatherings or parties, some use it to relieve stress or relax, for medical reasons and many also use it to enhance experiences; for example smoking cannabis before going to the theatre or before going out to a buffet to better enjoy your night out.

Alcohol is also used for many similar reasons. Although Alcohol is legal in Canada for persons over the age of 19, we all know very well it is not hard for a 17 or 18 year old to get their hands on some booze, whether it’s with an unauthentic identification or through an older friend or relative.

When we compare the consequences of these group of people using these substances we can see significant differences. Alcohol usage in adults and teenagers has led to a numerous amounts of fatal car crashes, many of them causing death. Alcohol is known to cause violent behavior in teens leading to physical altercations, criminal records, expulsions from school, etc. Young people are known to have the highest traffic deaths compared to all other groups here in Canada. When an individual is rage and under the influence of alcohol, they can make terrible decisions. 

On the other hand however, marijuana is known to cause the complete opposite. Marijuana is known to put individuals in a calm state of mind, reduces reaction time and can significantly increase appetite. It is also known to make some individuals paranoid and nervous. There have not been any known cases in which marijuana has led to violent behaviour or any fatal scenarios.

I guess you can argue that it may impair driving to an extent, but I believe we can all agree when I say it’s safer to be high and drive, then to drink and drive. 

Sources:

1. http://news.nationalpost.com/2012/01/17/majority-of-canadians-support-legalizing-or-decriminalizing-marijuana-new-poll-suggests/
2. http://www.ctvnews.ca/health/health-headlines/pot-should-be-legalized-and-regulated-like-alcohol-says-addiction-centre-1.2046372
3. http://luxury.rehabs.com/marijuana-rehab/social-impact-and-effects-of-marijuana/
4. http://www.madd.ca/madd2/en/services/youth_services_statistics.html
5. http://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2013/03/06/alcohol_one_of_canadas_top_health_threats_study.html