If You’re Still Smoking Weed at 30, Scientists Have Bad News
Cannabis use may be more socially accepted now than ever before, but if you’re still lighting up regularly into your 30s, some scientists say it’s time to reconsider the habit. While weed may feel like a harmless way to relax or get creative, new research suggests that continued use into adulthood—particularly regular or heavy use—can come with consequences you might not see coming.
A number of recent studies have raised concerns about the long-term impact of marijuana on the brain, particularly in users who continue well into their 30s and beyond. One of the most troubling findings is the potential link between prolonged cannabis use and cognitive decline. According to research published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), long-term users may experience noticeable drops in IQ, memory, attention, and executive function. These effects are even more pronounced for those who started using heavily in their teens—but continuing the habit into your 30s may still compound the damage.
Then there’s the issue of mental health. Several studies have tied chronic cannabis use to an increased risk of anxiety, depression, and in some cases, psychosis. The risk is particularly elevated for individuals with a genetic predisposition to mental health conditions. A study from The Lancet Psychiatry found that daily cannabis users were three times more likely to develop psychotic disorders, with the risk even higher for those using high-potency strains. If you’re in your 30s and already juggling the stress of adulthood—career pressures, relationships, finances—this added risk might be the last thing you need.
Physical health isn’t off the hook either. Despite the common belief that weed is a safer alternative to cigarettes, studies have shown that long-term smoking—of any substance—can lead to respiratory issues. Chronic bronchitis, coughing, and reduced lung capacity have all been linked to regular marijuana use. There’s also emerging evidence that prolonged cannabis use may impact heart health and contribute to a higher risk of stroke.
And what about motivation and productivity? While not everyone who smokes is lazy, researchers have pointed to something known as “amotivational syndrome”—a pattern of decreased ambition, interest, or drive that has been anecdotally and scientifically associated with prolonged cannabis use. In your 30s, when career growth and personal development are often at their peak, anything that dulls your drive could have long-term consequences.
To be clear, not all weed use is harmful, and many people use it responsibly, even into their 30s and beyond. There are therapeutic benefits for some users, especially those dealing with chronic pain, insomnia, or certain mental health issues. But the growing body of evidence suggests that for those using cannabis frequently and recreationally well into adulthood, it may be worth reflecting on the bigger picture.
So, if you’re still smoking weed at 30, the science isn’t here to judge—but it is here to warn. The habit might not be as harmless as it feels, and your future self may thank you for cutting back or reevaluating how and why you use it.
If You’re Still Smoking Weed at 30, Scientists Have Bad News
Cannabis use may be more socially accepted now than ever before, but if you’re still lighting up regularly into your 30s, some scientists say it’s time to reconsider the habit. While weed may feel like a harmless way to relax or get creative, new research suggests that continued use into adulthood—particularly regular or heavy use—can come with consequences you might not see coming.
A number of recent studies have raised concerns about the long-term impact of marijuana on the brain, particularly in users who continue well into their 30s and beyond. One of the most troubling findings is the potential link between prolonged cannabis use and cognitive decline. According to research published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), long-term users may experience noticeable drops in IQ, memory, attention, and executive function. These effects are even more pronounced for those who started using heavily in their teens—but continuing the habit into your 30s may still compound the damage.
Then there’s the issue of mental health. Several studies have tied chronic cannabis use to an increased risk of anxiety, depression, and in some cases, psychosis. The risk is particularly elevated for individuals with a genetic predisposition to mental health conditions. A study from The Lancet Psychiatry found that daily cannabis users were three times more likely to develop psychotic disorders, with the risk even higher for those using high-potency strains. If you’re in your 30s and already juggling the stress of adulthood—career pressures, relationships, finances—this added risk might be the last thing you need.
Physical health isn’t off the hook either. Despite the common belief that weed is a safer alternative to cigarettes, studies have shown that long-term smoking—of any substance—can lead to respiratory issues. Chronic bronchitis, coughing, and reduced lung capacity have all been linked to regular marijuana use. There’s also emerging evidence that prolonged cannabis use may impact heart health and contribute to a higher risk of stroke.
And what about motivation and productivity? While not everyone who smokes is lazy, researchers have pointed to something known as “amotivational syndrome”—a pattern of decreased ambition, interest, or drive that has been anecdotally and scientifically associated with prolonged cannabis use. In your 30s, when career growth and personal development are often at their peak, anything that dulls your drive could have long-term consequences.
To be clear, not all weed use is harmful, and many people use it responsibly, even into their 30s and beyond. There are therapeutic benefits for some users, especially those dealing with chronic pain, insomnia, or certain mental health issues. But the growing body of evidence suggests that for those using cannabis frequently and recreationally well into adulthood, it may be worth reflecting on the bigger picture.
So, if you’re still smoking weed at 30, the science isn’t here to judge—but it is here to warn. The habit might not be as harmless as it feels, and your future self may thank you for cutting back or reevaluating how and why you use it.
