As marijuana becomes more widely accepted for both medical and recreational use, a recent study raises concerns about its long-term effects on adults over the age of 30. Researchers at The University of Queensland found that continuing to use cannabis beyond this age may be linked to reduced success in key areas such as income, education, and overall life satisfaction. The study tracked over 8,000 mothers and 2,000 children, examining drug use patterns at ages 21 and 30. While younger users didn’t show significant drawbacks, those who continued using cannabis into their 30s appeared to face challenges in achieving traditional markers of success.
However, it’s important to note the study’s limitations. Conducted primarily among Australian women, the findings might not apply universally to other populations or countries. Additionally, the researchers measured success using factors like homeownership and relationship stability, which don’t align with everyone’s personal definition of fulfillment. Another drawback is that the study didn’t account for the use of other substances, leaving open the possibility that the results could be influenced by broader drug habits rather than cannabis use alone. Despite these caveats, the findings offer food for thought for those considering their cannabis consumption as they enter a new decade of life.
