The brain is still developing
The brain continues developing into the mid-20s. Cannabis can affect attention, memory, learning, coordination, judgment, and reaction time.
Someone cannot wake up or is having trouble breathing? Call 911. For Poison Control, call 1-800-222-1222.
Clear facts • Connecticut information • Support
Cannabis: Facts, Risks & Support
Cannabis is legal for adults in Connecticut, but that does not mean it is risk-free for teens. Learn about today’s products, the developing brain, mental health, driving, Connecticut laws, and where to find help.
What young people and caregivers should know
Cannabis affects people differently. Age, product strength, frequency of use, mental health, other substances, and how a product is consumed can all change the risk.
Mental health matters
Some people experience anxiety, panic, paranoia, or worsening mental-health symptoms. Risk can be greater with frequent use and high-THC products.
Dependence can happen
Needing more to feel the same effect, unsuccessful attempts to stop, cravings, or use that interferes with school, relationships, sleep, or activities can signal a problem.
Today’s cannabis is not one single product
Vapes, concentrates, flower, beverages, and edibles can contain very different amounts of THC. Labels and appearance do not tell you exactly how someone will react.
High-potency products
Concentrates and some vape products may contain much higher levels of THC than traditional cannabis flower.
- Effects can be stronger than expected.
- High doses may increase anxiety, panic, confusion, or vomiting.
- Using cannabis with alcohol or other substances increases impairment.
Edibles can take time
Edibles may take longer to produce noticeable effects, which can lead someone to consume more before the first amount has fully taken effect.
- Keep cannabis locked and away from children and pets.
- Never drive or ride with an impaired driver.
- Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 if someone may have consumed too much.
Being high changes driving
Cannabis can slow reaction time and affect coordination, attention, distance judgment, and decision-making. In Connecticut, driving under the influence of cannabis is illegal.
- Do not drive after using cannabis.
- Do not get in a car with a driver who is impaired.
- Plan a sober ride before going out.
- If a ride feels unsafe, call a trusted adult—even if the conversation feels uncomfortable.
Connecticut Social Host Laws
Adults and others who control a home or private property have a legal responsibility not to allow underage possession of cannabis or alcohol there.
Cannabis and people under 21
Under Connecticut General Statutes § 21a-421ccc, a person who possesses or controls a dwelling or private property may not knowingly or recklessly permit a person under 21 to illegally possess cannabis there. If the person knows it is happening, the law also requires reasonable efforts to stop it.
Alcohol and people under 21
Connecticut General Statutes § 30-89a establishes a similar rule for underage possession of alcohol in a dwelling or on private property.
The consequence: A violation of either provision is a Class A misdemeanor. Under Connecticut’s general sentencing statutes, a Class A misdemeanor can carry up to one year of imprisonment, a fine of up to $2,000, or both. This summary is for prevention education and is not legal advice. Read the linked statutes for the official language.
Information and support
Whether you want to understand the risks, talk with a young person, cut back, or find treatment, there is a place to start.
For youth and young adults
Find cannabis information, recovery resources, peer stories, meetings, and other Connecticut supports created for teens and young adults.
Explore Youth Recovery CT →For parents and caregivers
Learn how to start calm, ongoing conversations, set clear expectations, respond to concerns, and connect a young person with help.
Partnership to End Addiction →Connecticut cannabis information
Review youth cannabis information, current Connecticut prevention materials, and facts about cannabis and the developing brain.
Visit Be In The Know CT →Local services
Connecticut 211 can help locate substance-use, mental-health, and other community services. Dial 211 or search the online resource directory.
Search Connecticut 211 →Not sure what kind of help you need?
Tri-Town Youth Services can help youth and families in Chester, Deep River, and Essex find appropriate information and local support without judgment.