Preventing Youth Marijuana Use
Each year our youth work on projects like to provide the public with facts on underage marijuana use.
The following 30-second Public Service Announcements (PSAs below) feature our local youth educating about the high levels of THC (main chemical in marijuana that causes the high) and the many changes in the makeup of current marijuana. This media campaign was shared on TV, radio, social media, billboards, banners, print ads, and in movie theaters.
Each fall wristband bracelets are made with a youth led message. These are very popular among the youth and are worn on a daily basis to spread awareness and empower each other to live substance-free lifestyles.
Did you know that 84% of youth in the SAFE region choose not to use weed. SAFE youth have created two new public service announcements to help their peers realize most youth don’t use weed. The students show all the things they enjoy while being drug-free.
What to know about Delta-8 Cannabis THC
Delta-8 THC is a chemical found in the cannabis plant. It’s similar to Delta-9 THC, the main ingredient in marijuana that causes a “high.” Although Delta-8 occurs naturally in very small amounts, most products sold today are made by chemically converting hemp-derived CBD into concentrated Delta-8 THC.
While some products are labeled as “hemp,” that does not mean they are non-intoxicating or safe.
Is Delta-8 THC Safe?
No Delta-8 THC product has been evaluated or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for safe use. Because these products are largely unregulated, they may contain inconsistent amounts of THC or harmful contaminants.
The FDA and poison control centers have received thousands of reports involving Delta-8 THC products. Some people have experienced:
- Hallucinations
- Vomiting
- Confusion
- Dizziness
- Tremors
- Anxiety
- Loss of consciousness
Many cases required emergency medical care, and children have been especially affected after accidentally eating Delta-8 gummies or candies.
Labels Can Be Misleading
Some packages simply say “hemp,” which can make people believe the product won’t cause intoxication. That’s not true—Delta-8 THC can still produce a high.
Why Is the FDA Warning the Public?
The FDA has raised concerns because of:
- Increasing reports of serious health effects
- Products marketed in ways that appeal to youth
- Misleading labeling
- Potential contamination during manufacturing
- Unproven health and medical claims
Just because a product is labeled “hemp” doesn’t mean it’s safe. Delta-8 THC can cause intoxication, impair judgment, and may contain harmful contaminants. Because these products are not FDA-approved and continue to raise public health concerns, it’s important for youth and families to understand the risks before using them.
Effective Oct. 11, 2021, it is illegal for businesses in Michigan to sell Delta-8 without proper licensing from the state’s Marijuana Regulatory Agency. Read the order.
Youth PSAs
