What is Delta-8 THC?

By YOUTH CONNECTIONS STAFF

Delta-8 Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is a psychoactive cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant. It is slightly less potent than the common Delta-9 THC (what everyone is familiar with), but its psychological and physiological effects are similar, albeit to a lesser degree. It is commonly known as “weed light.” It has become popular because of its similarity to THC, the main compound in marijuana that gets users high.

While it is supposedly “milder” than Delta-9, that refers to the mind-altering effects, not the safety of the substance. While it is thought to be less potent, it doesn’t make it a safer or less addictive alternative to other marijuana products.

WILL DELTA-8 GET USERS HIGH?

Yes, but not as high as common Delta-9 THC. Delta- 9 THC can cause negative effects for some, including paranoia or anxiety, so a less potent drug may be desirable. Side effects may be similar to those of Delta-9. It is important to note that Delta-8 has not been studied enough to determine all the effects – short and long-term – it has on the body and brain.

Many extractors are ramping up Delta-8 production to meet the new demand and then shipping it all over the country. One just needs to research the internet to find all sorts of products available with Delta-8, none of which are regulated for safety or their claims of health benefits tested.

IS DELTA-8 LEGAL?

The legality of Delta-8 is fuzzy. It can be extracted from either cannabis or hemp, but more commonly from hemp, which is why it is sold in many states where marijuana is illegal. And because hemp can be legally grown and used for extractions all over the United States, this makes Delta-8 legal in states where Delta-9 is illegal…sometimes. It is hard to tell if it was created from hemp or by modifying cannabidiol (CBD), which would make the substance illegal.

IS IT SAFE FOR YOUTH?

No. No amount of THC is safe for youth, even if the potency is roughly half of what is in the marijuana on the market. The risk of addiction and abuse remain the same as marijuana. It is essentially marijuana in another form. Consequences for using Delta-8 can include possible arrests due to unknown legality, lower grades or poor school performance, and failed drug screens.

There is still too much unknown about Delta-8, including its legality, potency and long-term effects. ■

HEALTHY STRESS BUSTERS

BALANCED NUTRITION

General rule of thumb includes 5-9 servings of fruits and vegetables per day and foods rich in omega-3-fatty acids, including fish, nuts and fiber.

MINDFULNESS PRACTICES

Practice mindfulness, such as meditation, yoga, or prayer for 20 minutes, two times a day. Apps like Headspace and Calm are easy, accessible ways to get started.

QUALITY SLEEP

Get sufficient, highquality sleep. Go to sleep and wake up at the same time each day, turn off electronics at least a half hour before bed, drink some warm water or hot tea and read a book after you climb into bed.

SUPPORTIVE RELATIONSHIPS

Connect with friends or family members daily. Inperson is best, but it can be done virtually. Listen earnestly. Be genuinely interested in what they're sharing.

MENTAL HEALTH CARE

Schedule video or phone sessions for psychotherapy, psychiatric care and substance use disorder treatment when possible. Minimize consumption of news or other media content that feels upsetting.

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

Engage in 60 minutes of physical activity every day. It doesn’t have to be all at one time. Dance party in your bedroom, 35 jumping jacks here and there, or 20 minute hula hooping contest.