Why Are Youths Getting Hooked On Cannabis? | Talking Point | Full Episode

Summary

This documentary investigates the rising cannabis use among youths in Singapore, exploring how the drug's growing social acceptance globally contrasts with the nation's zero-tolerance stance. It highlights the dangers of addiction, the involvement of online platforms in trafficking, and the significant health risks, including cognitive decline and the development of other drug dependencies. Through interviews with experts, former users, and law enforcement, the program sheds light on the consequences of cannabis use, particularly among young people, and the challenges in combating its growing popularity despite strict laws.

Takeaways

• 😀 Cannabis has a quick effect on the brain, making users feel relaxed and euphoric, but this can lead to addiction and loss of control.
• 😀 In Singapore, cannabis is illegal, and those caught with even small amounts can face severe legal consequences, including the death penalty for trafficking.
• 😀 Despite strict laws, cannabis use is on the rise globally, with more countries legalizing it, making it the world’s most lucrative cash crop.
• 😀 In 2022, there was a 71% increase in cannabis-related arrests in Singapore, with a significant rise in young users, some as young as 14.
• 😀 Cannabis is increasingly trafficked through online platforms, and syndicates use novel methods to smuggle it, including hiding it in fire extinguishers and infusing it in edibles.
• 😀 In Singapore, the retail price of cannabis is declining, with 5 grams selling for around 150 SGD, which can be enough for 15 joints.
• 😀 THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is the primary compound in cannabis responsible for its euphoric effects, and its impact on the brain can lead to cognitive issues over time.
• 😀 Young users, particularly those aged 14 to 21, often turn to cannabis due to peer pressure, curiosity, or the desire to bond with others.
• 😀 Cannabis use is a gateway to other more dangerous substances, and some users may gradually transition to drugs like ecstasy, heroin, and methamphetamine.
• 😀 Pop culture and social media normalize cannabis use, with influential figures like Lady Gaga and Snoop Dogg portraying it as cool, which influences youth perceptions of the drug.
• 😀 Prolonged cannabis use can cause brain thinning, especially in the frontal areas responsible for decision-making, which can negatively impact academic performance and cognitive abilities.

Q & A

Why is cannabis so addictive according to the transcript?

Cannabis becomes addictive because it can quickly affect the brain, providing a calming and euphoric feeling that users often seek repeatedly. Over time, users may develop a tolerance, leading them to chase a stronger effect, which can result in a dependency on the drug.

What are the consequences of cannabis trafficking in Singapore?

In Singapore, cannabis is classified as a Class A controlled substance, making it illegal. Trafficking cannabis could lead to severe penalties, including the death penalty in certain cases.

How is cannabis smuggled into Singapore?

Cannabis is smuggled into Singapore in various ways, such as hidden in fire extinguishers, secret compartments in vehicles, or mixed into legitimate goods. Drug trafficking syndicates have also started infusing cannabis into edible products like brownies, sweets, and gummies.

What is the role of mobile chat applications in cannabis trafficking?

Mobile chat applications, such as Telegram, have become a common platform for trafficking cannabis. These apps make it easier for individuals to connect with traffickers, arrange purchases, and transfer money anonymously.

How does cannabis use impact youth in Singapore?

Cannabis use among youth in Singapore is on the rise, with a notable increase in arrests, particularly among those under 20. Many young users turn to cannabis due to curiosity, peer pressure, or a desire to escape the pressures of daily life, often leading to addiction.

What are the psychological effects of prolonged cannabis use?

Long-term cannabis use can have several negative effects on the brain, including a reduction in the thickness of the frontal lobe, which is crucial for decision-making. Users may experience cognitive deficits, difficulty with attention, memory loss, and poorer academic performance.

How does pop culture influence cannabis use among young people?

Pop culture plays a significant role in normalizing cannabis use. Celebrities like Lady Gaga and Snoop Dogg openly use cannabis, which sends a message that it's cool and socially acceptable. Social media platforms and influencers further reinforce this perception.

What is the difference between regular cannabis and synthetic cannabis?

Synthetic cannabis is created in laboratories, often with higher concentrations of THC (the active ingredient in cannabis). This makes synthetic cannabis more potent and potentially more dangerous than naturally grown cannabis.

How does cannabis use impact the developing brains of teenagers?

Cannabis use can interfere with the development of a teenager's brain, particularly in the frontal lobe, which affects decision-making and impulse control. Brain scans show thinning in the frontal areas, which can lead to long-term cognitive and emotional issues.

Why do some users see cannabis as harmless despite its risks?

Many users, especially younger ones, view cannabis as harmless due to its normalization in media and online research. They often find arguments that cannabis is not as dangerous as other drugs, which makes them more likely to try it without fully understanding its potential harms.