Marijuana usage by adults under 30 years old

After being legalized federally in 2018, marijuana and marijuana-based products have been made widely available at any local dispensary.

On Apr. 19, 2023, the MediaPlex conducted a poll which targeted adults under 30 years of age, inquiring about their usage of marijuana.

According to the data collected, out of a sample size of 40, 60 per cent of those who filled out the poll indicated that they have at some point used marijuana-related products.

Mavis Calis, 19, a frequent user of marijuana-based products with a part-time job in the service industry, stated her job has impacted her usage of the substances.

“I often have muscle pain after I get off work, and getting high helps with that,” said Calis. “It also helps relieve any stress from my shift.”

Based on the information collected from the poll, more than 79 per cent of those under the age of 30 years old who have used marijuana in some form, have part-time or full-time employment. Additionally, 63 per cent stated that they were in either college or university.

Others, like Morgan Story, 19, have chosen not to use marijuana or other related substances.

Story pointed toward being unemployed as a factor in her usage, she added her parents also “wouldn’t allow it,” if she were to try it.

In opposition to Story, Kahlil Washington, 19, a full-time worker added that he would like to expand his usage.

“I would definitely like to increase my usage of marijuana,” said Washington. “Mostly, with friends as they have an interest and I think it would be a fun experience with them.”

Of those who reported using marijuana-based products, more than 16 per cent stated that they would classify themselves as heavy users.

Calis, a self-identified medium to heavy user of marijuana, stated that overall she would like to use less of it in the future, adding that she would like to be “more cognizant during the day,” and that she didn’t want it to become a “chronic necessity.”

Washington, who identified himself as a light user, mentioned that while he likes the idea of using more of the substance with friends, he did not foresee himself using it in his day-to-day.

“I don’t have the time or interest to use it in my daily life.” Said Washington.

Among those who identified themselves as medium to heavy users, 75 per cent cited stress as a major factor in their usage.