Scientific studies show that the brain reaches its peak of development and maturation between the ages of 20 and 22. From the embryonic stage, through childhood and adolescence to adulthood, the brain undergoes a process called myelination, which consists of the creation and reinforcement of neural networks.

.

During the first years of life this myelination focuses on the subcortical (or internal) areas of the brain that are responsible for reflex behaviors and the first learning, followed by this, during adolescence and early adulthood this myelination reaches the Cortical (or higher) parts of the brain such as the frontal lobe which is in charge of higher functions such as attention, learning and memory and finally decision making and problem solving.

.

Before this moment the consumption of any psychoactive substance can cause damage in the process. This implies a greater risk of developing dependence on the substance while increasing the risk of suffering deficits in attention, memory, information processing speed and intelligence.

.

In addition to this, the problems associated with substance use in adolescence are not limited to health; Aspects that have not been fully developed such as decision-making, impulse control and emotional management make the adolescent more prone to engage in higher risk behaviors such as arguments, fights, unprotected sex, acute intoxication, etc. .

.

For this reason our first recommendation will always be NOT TO CONSUME ANY PSYCHOACTIVE SUBSTANCE , avoid or delay the consumption of any of these until after 21 years of age in order to reduce the negative consequences.

.

.