If You’re Still Smoking Weed at 30, Scientists Have Bad News
Marijuana is gradually gaining wider acceptance globally. Its use for medical purposes, anxiety relief, and recreational enjoyment is attracting an increasing number of supporters. Nevertheless, recent research raises concerns regarding the advisability of its use among adults, particularly those aged 30 and older. This suggests that individuals within this demographic may need to reevaluate their consumption habits.
Smoking Marijuana After 30 Might Not Be A Good Idea
If you are 30 years of age or older and partake in cannabis use, whether occasionally or regularly, recent research from Australia may prompt you to reconsider this habit. The study focused on the life outcomes of marijuana users, revealing concerning results for adults in this age group.
Researchers from The University of Queensland investigated the success outcomes associated with both amphetamine and marijuana use. They analyzed data from more than 8,000 mothers and 2,000 children regarding drug use at the ages of 21 and 30. The findings indicated that marijuana usage was linked to lower success rates across nine specific criteria.
- Education
- Income
- Home ownership
- Relationship status
- Reported happiness
The Study’s Limitations
It is important not to become distressed by the notion that you must eliminate the habit by the age of 30, or that you should have already done so. There are several limitations associated with this study that indicate its findings may not necessarily be applicable.
1. Strange Data
This dataset originates from Australia and exclusively comprises female mothers. Additionally, it is highly localized, which may limit its applicability to other countries. Some of the information dates back to 1981, which may not be relevant to a contemporary, global demographic.
2. Markers of Success
One additional limitation pertains to the criteria established to assess an individual’s success. For instance, two such criteria are homeownership and relationship status. Both of these factors are significantly influenced by cultural and geographical contexts. Homeownership, for instance, is often more reflective of personal priorities and the specific location in which one resides than an indicator of success. It is also affected by familial considerations and the decision to put down roots in a particular area. In light of the growing trend of digital nomadism, the possession of a home does not inherently signify success.
Similarly, relationship status presents a complex challenge when evaluating success. This aspect is also subject to various cultural and geographical influences. There are numerous highly accomplished individuals who are single, just as there are many couples facing difficulties in other aspects of their lives. While being in a relationship may hold significant value for some and contribute to their personal definition of success, it does not universally equate to success for everyone.
3. Other Drug Use
The study also didn’t look to see if those on the end of highly un-successful were using other drugs as well as marijuana and/or amphetamines.
“We do not have adequate data on other illicit drugs that may be being used, for example, ecstasy, opiates and even synthetic drugs,” the researchers admitted in their paper. “A subset of those using cannabis as well as amphetamines may also be using a range of other drugs and it may be that our findings reflect polydrug use generally rather than the specific use of cannabis and amphetamines.”
What Does This Mean For You?
The study indicates that experimenting with drugs during one’s youth does not necessarily lead to failure in adulthood. However, it emphasizes the importance of ensuring that such experimentation does not evolve into dependency in later life. Excessive use of substances like marijuana in adulthood can potentially impact various aspects of life, including work performance, personal relationships, and overall stability.
Therefore, if you choose to use marijuana, it is advisable to do so responsibly. It is crucial to avoid excessive consumption and to ensure that it does not dominate your life. Should you notice a decline in motivation, an increase in expenditure on the substance, or interference with your professional and personal obligations, it may be prudent to reevaluate and possibly discontinue the habit.