An informed parent is one best equipped to face the complexities of raising children in 2024. With all of the positive advancements, there is a parallel dark side to what is available to today’s youth. But knowledge is power; and taking the time to really know your child can be one of the most powerful tools to protect them.

Seth* had been acting strangely for weeks. He would suddenly begin spewing strange words or dancing on the table and then just as quickly stop. His parents didn’t know what to make of this, but Seth insisted he was just joking around.

Things soon got worse. Seth accused his siblings of stealing and plotting against him. He told his parents that he had been kidnapped as a child. He became violent. At that point, Amudim received a panicked call from Seth’s parents.

Our case manager suggested that Seth’s parents search his room, where they found several vape pens scattered among his belongings; the case manager told Seth’s parents to take him to the emergency room and explain that they suspected a THC overdose. Seth’s parents were shocked to learn that large doses of the active ingredient in marijuana can induce psychosis and require critical medical treatment. At the hospital, Seth was immediately diagnosed with an overdose and given the proper care. He was admitted and remained in the hospital for several days.

Seth’s parents convinced him to speak with our case manager, who talked with him about his drug use. Seth described himself as an “occasional pot user” who had been vaping more than usual due to boredom. Thankfully, Seth’s experience compelled him to seek help but was not bad enough to incur permanent damage. Seth has begun working with a therapist to learn healthier coping skills; he and his case manager are in regular contact every week.

Today’s weed is not the same as forty or even twenty years ago; THC levels are higher and more potent, and ease of access has led to a large number of medical emergencies. We must be vigilant and aware in this ever changing world in order to best protect our children.

If you or someone you know is in trouble, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Amudim is just a phone call away and here to help.

*Names and details have been changed for privacy purposes