Marijuana is gradually gaining acceptance worldwide. Whether it’s for medical purposes, to alleviate anxiety, or simply for recreational use, the plant is attracting more enthusiasts. However, a recent study raises concerns about whether marijuana is a wise choice for adults—especially those aged 30 and above. The findings suggest this age group might want to rethink their usage.
Why Smoking Marijuana After 30 Could Be Problematic
If you’re 30 or older and enjoy the occasional (or frequent) joint, you may want to reconsider. Research conducted in Australia suggests that continuing the habit might not lead to the best life outcomes.
Researchers from The University of Queensland analyzed the long-term effects of marijuana and amphetamine use on individuals’ life achievements. They collected data from over 8000 mothers and 2000 children, tracking drug use at ages 21 and 30. The findings revealed that marijuana use was linked to lower success rates across nine key areas, raising questions about its impact on adult life outcomes.
Education
Income
Home Ownership
Relationship Status
Reported Happiness
The most significant finding, however, is that these reduced success rates were only observed in those who continued using marijuana beyond the age of 30.
Limitations of the Study
Before you panic about the idea of quitting marijuana by the time you hit 30 (or feeling like you’re already behind), take a moment to consider the limitations of this research. These factors suggest that the results might not be universally applicable.
- Unusual Data
One notable limitation is that the study was conducted in Australia and focused solely on women who were mothers. Additionally, the data was highly localized, making it less representative of other countries or demographics. Some of the information even dates back to 1981, which raises questions about its relevance to today’s global and modern population.
This revised version keeps the original meaning intact while offering a fresh perspective.
2. Redefining Success Indicators
Another limitation lies in how the study defines “success.” For example, two key markers are homeownership and relationship status. These metrics are heavily influenced by cultural and geographical factors, making them less universally applicable.
Owning a home often depends on personal priorities and regional circumstances rather than being a definitive measure of success. Factors like whether you have a family or choose to settle down can influence this decision. In an era where digital nomadism is on the rise, homeownership is no longer the ultimate marker of success for many.
Similarly, relationship status is a subjective measure of success. Cultural differences and personal values play a huge role here. While many single people achieve great success, others in relationships may struggle in other areas of life. Being in a relationship may align with your personal goals, but it doesn’t universally equate to success.
3. The Role of Other Drug Use
The study also didn’t account for the use of other substances in individuals with lower success rates. Researchers admitted:
“We lack sufficient data on other illicit drugs, such as ecstasy, opiates, and synthetic substances. Some participants who used cannabis and amphetamines may also have used other drugs, and our findings could reflect general polydrug use rather than the specific effects of cannabis or amphetamines.”
What Does This Mean for You?
The study highlights that experimenting with drugs in your youth doesn’t doom you to an unsuccessful future. However, it does emphasize the importance of avoiding dependency on substances as an adult. Overusing drugs like marijuana may negatively impact work performance, relationships, and overall stability for some individuals.
If you choose to use marijuana, it’s important to do so responsibly. Be mindful if it begins to affect your motivation, drain your finances, or interfere with work or personal obligations. In such cases, it might be worth reevaluating the habit and considering quitting.
