People often use alcohol, marijuana and vapes to cope with stress,
anxiety, and/or depression…but at what cost?

VAPING
Overview
Vaping involves using electronic devices, often called e-cigarettes, that heat a liquid into
an aerosol (vapor), which is then inhaled. The liquid typically contains nicotine,
flavorings, and other chemicals, and it can also include THC, the psychoactive
component of marijuana.
Risks Associated with Vaping
Nicotine and Marijuana:
Addiction Potential: Nicotine is a highly addictive substance, and vaping can deliver it in
high doses. Teens are particularly vulnerable to nicotine addiction, which can make
quitting extremely difficult and increase the likelihood of transitioning to traditional
cigarettes or other substances.
THC Vaping: Vaping devices can also be used to consume THC, which carries its own
risks, particularly for the developing brain. THC can impair cognitive functions, and its
use in adolescence is linked to mental health issues such as anxiety and psychosis.
Impact on Brain Development:
Neurodevelopmental Concerns: The adolescent brain is still developing, particularly in
areas responsible for decision-making, impulse control, and emotion regulation.
Nicotine exposure during this critical period can disrupt these processes, potentially
leading to long-term cognitive impairments and an increased risk of mood disorders.
Learning and Memory: Nicotine affects brain circuits related to learning and memory,
making it harder for adolescents to focus, retain information, and perform well
academically.
Lung Damage:
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Respiratory Issues: Vaping can cause serious lung damage, including conditions like
chronic bronchitis and asthma. The inhalation of harmful chemicals in vaping aerosols
can irritate the lungs, leading to persistent cough, shortness of breath, and other
respiratory issues.
EVALI (E-cigarette or Vaping Product Use-Associated Lung Injury): A severe lung
condition linked to vaping, EVALI has led to numerous hospitalizations and fatalities.
Symptoms include breathing difficulties, chest pain, and gastrointestinal issues.
Further Reading
NIDA: Vaping Devices (Electronic Cigarettes)
CDC: Outbreak of Lung Injury Associated with the Use of E-Cigarette, or Vaping,
Products

ALCOHOL
Overview
Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant that is widely consumed in social
settings. However, its use during adolescence poses significant risks due to the ongoing
development of the brain.
Risks Associated with Alcohol Use
Brain Development:
Neurotoxicity: Alcohol disrupts the communication pathways in the brain, particularly
affecting areas responsible for executive function, memory, and impulse control. These
disruptions can lead to long-term cognitive deficits and behavioral issues.
Memory Impairment: Regular alcohol use during adolescence can impair memory
formation and retrieval, making it harder for students to learn and retain information.
Risky Behavior:
Increased Likelihood of Accidents: Alcohol impairs judgment and coordination,
significantly increasing the risk of accidents, including car crashes, falls, and drownings.
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Adolescents are more likely to engage in risky behaviors, such as driving under the
influence or unprotected sex, when intoxicated.
Social and Legal Consequences: Underage drinking can lead to legal issues, including
arrests, and social consequences like school suspensions or being kicked off sports
teams.
Dependency:
Addiction Risk: The earlier a person starts drinking, the greater their risk of developing
alcohol dependence later in life. Adolescents who drink are also more likely to
experiment with other substances, compounding their risk of addiction.
Mental Health Issues: Chronic alcohol use can lead to mental health problems,
including depression, anxiety, and an increased risk of suicide.
Further Reading
National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) on Alcohol and the
Adolescent Brain
CDC: Underage Drinking

MARIJUANA
Overview
Marijuana is a psychoactive drug derived from the Cannabis plant, containing
compounds like THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol). While some states,
including Oklahoma, have legalized its use for adults, it remains illegal for minors, and
its use during adolescence can have severe repercussions.
Risks Associated with Marijuana Use
Cognitive Impairment:
Attention and Memory Deficits: Regular marijuana use can impair cognitive functions,
particularly attention, memory, and learning. Adolescents who use marijuana frequently
may struggle with school performance and retaining new information.
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Lower IQ: Some studies suggest that persistent marijuana use during adolescence can
lead to a reduction in IQ, with the effects potentially lasting into adulthood.
Mental Health Risks:
Increased Anxiety and Depression: Marijuana use, especially in those with a
predisposition to mental illness, can exacerbate or trigger anxiety, depression, and in
some cases, psychosis. High-potency strains of marijuana may increase these risks.
Psychosis: There is evidence that marijuana use can increase the risk of developing
psychosis, particularly in individuals with a family history of schizophrenia or other
mental health disorders.
Academic Performance:
Decreased Motivation: Marijuana use can lead to a condition known as “amotivational
syndrome,” where individuals lose interest in activities they once enjoyed, including
academics. This can result in lower grades and reduced overall academic achievement.
School Dropout Rates: Students who use marijuana are more likely to skip classes,
underperform academically, and have higher dropout rates compared to their non-using
peers.

Further Reading
National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) on Marijuana and Adolescents
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) on the Risks
of Marijuana
Source: https://monstersoupsociety.com/worth-it/
https://monstersoupsociety.com/
The Monster Soup Society periodically conducts youth leadership bootcamps where
cohorts of youth are taught the Strategic Prevention Framework. Using this model, they
examine data about their community in order to not only select priority issues but also
corresponding priority root causes. This is because we are strategic in how we approach
our work. We plan before we act by looking at what is underneath the problem and deciding
how we will go about trying to change those factors.