Mind-Blowing! Let’s take a closer look at cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) Study Drugs, and the Science of Pleasure
Our final post in this series highlights three topics that spark a lot of curiosity among teens, and many concerned questions from parents.
These short, animated videos offer clear, judgment-free explanations that help adults feel informed and ready to talk about what teens may be hearing, seeing, or experiencing today.
Episode 10: Can Cannabis Make You Sick?
Many parents don’t know about cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) — a rare but real condition linked to frequent cannabis use. This episode explains:
- What cannabis hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) is
- Why it happens
- Why some teens may brush off early symptoms
- What signs parents should pay attention to
It’s information most adults have never received, but this episode makes it simple, accessible, and easy to discuss.
Episode 11: Do Study Drugs Actually Improve Performance?
Many teens believe stimulants like unprescribed ADHD medications can help them study longer or perform better — especially in high-pressure academic environments. This episode dives into:
- Why some students use them
- What the science actually says about performance
- The risks that come with misuse
- Why “shortcuts” aren’t what they seem
Parents gain insight into both the motivation and the science, making it easier to talk with teens about expectations, stress, and healthier study strategies.
Episode 12: Cannabis and the Pleasure Response — What Happens in the Brain?
This episode explores how cannabis affects the brain regions responsible for pleasure, motivation, and emotional experience. It breaks down:
- How THC interacts with receptors
- Why effects can feel different from person to person
- Why regular use can influence motivation and mood over time
- What parents can say when teens ask “why does it feel like…?”
This is one of those topics teens are curious about, but adults rarely get explained clearly — until now.
Why the “Mind Blowing” video series matters
The Mind-Blowing! series gives parents science-based information they can trust, in a format that’s easy to watch and easy to share with the kids in their lives, sparking important conversations, that can help youth make safer, healthier choices about substance use.
We’ll be putting these videos up on relevant pages throughout the website as we make the transition to our new brand and look. In the meantime, you can watch the entire video series by clicking below.
