If You’re Still Smoking Weed at 30, Scientists Have Bad News – 500 Words
As recreational marijuana use becomes more socially acceptable and legally accessible across many states and countries, people of all ages are lighting up. But if you’re over 30 and still regularly using cannabis, recent research suggests you may want to reconsider.
A growing body of scientific evidence shows that long-term, frequent cannabis use—especially when it continues past early adulthood—can come with significant mental and physical health consequences. While many users think of weed as a relatively harmless way to relax, studies have found that chronic marijuana use into your 30s and beyond can be linked to cognitive decline, mental health struggles, and even lower life satisfaction.
A recent study published in the journal Psychological Medicine found that people who use cannabis heavily into adulthood tend to have lower IQs, reduced memory function, and impaired executive functioning compared to non-users. These effects are especially pronounced in those who began using regularly during their teenage years and continued into their 30s. The brain continues developing into the mid-20s, and THC—the psychoactive compound in weed—may interfere with that process, leading to long-lasting changes in brain structure and function.
But it’s not just about cognition. Long-term weed users are also at a higher risk of developing mental health disorders. Studies have found strong associations between chronic cannabis use and depression, anxiety, and in some cases, psychosis. According to researchers, continued marijuana use past the age of 30 could be both a cause and a symptom of underlying mental health issues—especially for those using it as a coping mechanism.
Social consequences are also worth considering. A study from New Zealand that tracked users over decades found that persistent cannabis use was linked to lower educational and career achievement, more financial difficulties, and reduced overall life satisfaction. While occasional or moderate use might not cause these problems, the cumulative effects of long-term daily or near-daily use seem to take a toll on many areas of life.
Physical health isn’t spared either. While smoking weed isn’t as dangerous as tobacco in terms of cancer risk, it can still impact respiratory health—especially for those who smoke heavily. There’s also increasing concern about the effect of high-potency cannabis products on the cardiovascular system and on sleep quality.
That said, not all cannabis use is harmful. Many adults use marijuana responsibly and in moderation without major negative consequences. In fact, medical marijuana has been shown to help with chronic pain, anxiety, and some neurological conditions. The problem arises primarily with long-term, heavy, and dependent use, particularly when it becomes a substitute for addressing deeper issues or prevents people from making progress in life.
Ultimately, the message from researchers is not about demonizing marijuana, but about understanding the risks—especially as you age. If you’re over 30 and still using weed regularly, it might be worth reflecting on whether it’s helping or hindering your health, goals, and quality of life.
