If You’re Still Smoking Weed at 30, Here’s What You Should Know

Marijuana has come a long way from its days of taboo. Once whispered about in hushed tones, it's now celebrated in some circles for its medical benefits and recreational appeal. But while society has warmed to the idea of cannabis use, new research suggests that if you're over 30 and still lighting up, it might be worth reconsidering how it fits into your life.

A recent study conducted by The University of Queensland sheds light on how marijuana use beyond your 20s could impact key aspects of adulthood—income, education, and even happiness. The findings might surprise even the most casual users.

The Study That Got Everyone Talking

The study tracked over 8,000 mothers and 2,000 of their children, focusing on drug use patterns at ages 21 and 30. For those in their early 20s, marijuana use didn’t appear to derail major life goals. However, once users crossed the 30-year mark, a different story emerged. Researchers found that long-term marijuana use was linked to what they termed "lowered success rates" in areas like career growth, financial stability, and relationship satisfaction.

This wasn’t just about numbers in a bank account or degrees on a wall. It extended to broader measures of personal fulfillment, such as owning a home, maintaining steady relationships, and overall life satisfaction.

Why Age Matters

So, what’s the big deal about turning 30? Experts believe it comes down to the shifting priorities of adulthood. By your 30s, many people are laying the groundwork for long-term goals—buying a house, climbing the career ladder, or starting a family. Regular marijuana use, particularly when it borders on dependence, may interfere with the focus and motivation needed to achieve these milestones.

Marijuana’s effects on memory, attention, and executive function can become more pronounced as responsibilities grow. Tasks that once seemed manageable, like balancing work deadlines or nurturing relationships, might feel more overwhelming for those who rely heavily on cannabis.

The Catch: Not All Users Are Alike

Before you toss your stash, it’s important to note the study’s limitations. For starters, it focused on Australian women, meaning its findings might not apply universally. Cultural differences, economic conditions, and social norms can all influence how marijuana use affects different populations.

Moreover, the study measured "success" through conventional markers like homeownership and marital status. But as we know, success is subjective. For some, renting a cozy apartment and embracing singlehood might be just as fulfilling as owning a suburban home with a white picket fence.

Another critical limitation is the lack of data on other substance use. The researchers admitted that some findings could be tied to "polydrug use"—the combination of multiple substances—rather than marijuana alone.

What Does This Mean for You?

If you’re in your 30s and still enjoying the occasional joint, don’t panic. Moderate marijuana use isn’t necessarily a death knell for your dreams. The key lies in balance.

Ask yourself:

• Is marijuana interfering with your ability to meet deadlines or excel at work?
• Does it strain your relationships or prevent you from being present with loved ones?
• Are you using it to avoid confronting deeper issues, like stress or anxiety?

If the answers to these questions give you pause, it might be time to reevaluate your habits. Cutting back or exploring alternative stress-relief methods, like exercise or meditation, can help you maintain a healthy relationship with cannabis without letting it dominate your life.

The Bottom Line

As marijuana becomes more socially accepted, it’s easy to overlook its potential downsides. But studies like this one serve as a gentle reminder to use it mindfully, especially as you age.

For some, marijuana can be a source of relaxation or even creativity. For others, overuse might hold them back from reaching their full potential. The choice is ultimately yours, but as life grows more complex in your 30s and beyond, it's worth considering whether your habits are helping you move forward—or holding you back.