If You’re Still Smoking Weed at 30, Scientists Have Bad News (500 Words)
Marijuana has become increasingly normalized in recent years, with many U.S. states legalizing it for recreational and medicinal use. While the cultural stigma has faded, scientists are raising concerns about the long-term effects of chronic cannabis use, especially for those still regularly using it into their 30s and beyond.
Recent studies suggest that habitual marijuana use past age 30 could have significant consequences for both mental and physical health. A study published in the journal Psychological Medicine tracked nearly 1,000 people from birth to mid-adulthood and found that those who were long-term, heavy cannabis users were more likely to experience cognitive decline, lower IQ scores, and memory issues. Even after adjusting for other factors like alcohol use and mental health conditions, the results pointed clearly to cannabis as the likely culprit.
Dr. Madeline Meier, a psychologist and one of the lead researchers on the study, stated, “Our findings suggest that persistent cannabis use starting in adolescence and continuing into adulthood is associated with cognitive impairments that don’t fully reverse even when people stop using.”
But the issue isn’t just about memory and focus. A separate study out of the University of Toronto found that people who smoked marijuana regularly into their 30s had higher risks of cardiovascular problems, including increased heart rate and blood pressure. These users were also more likely to develop issues related to motivation and mood, including depression and apathy. Researchers are still studying the extent to which marijuana affects dopamine levels—the brain chemical that regulates motivation, reward, and pleasure—but early signs suggest that prolonged cannabis use may dull the brain’s natural reward system.
Another concern scientists raise is how marijuana use at 30 and beyond can impact lifestyle and decision-making. Regular cannabis use has been linked with reduced productivity, career instability, and difficulty maintaining healthy relationships. While the effects might seem subtle day-to-day, over time they can compound, leading to long-term personal and professional challenges.
Not all marijuana use is considered harmful, of course. Occasional recreational use doesn’t appear to carry the same risks, and medical use under the guidance of a doctor can be beneficial for some conditions. However, what worries researchers is the growing number of adults who use cannabis daily or almost daily—especially those who began in their teens and never stopped.
So what’s the takeaway? If you’re over 30 and still smoking weed regularly, it may be time to reflect on why. Is it habit? Stress relief? Social use? Scientists aren’t trying to shame users but to raise awareness about the long-term consequences that often get overlooked in popular discussions about marijuana.
As cannabis becomes more mainstream, experts urge users to think critically about their consumption patterns. Occasional use may not be a problem, but consistent, heavy use over decades appears to carry significant risks. Like with alcohol or other substances, moderation and mindfulness are key.
In short, lighting up may seem harmless in the moment—but if you’re still smoking weed into your 30s, the science says you might want to put the joint down and take a closer look at what it’s doing to your mind and body.
