Discussing Cannabis with Young People: A Guide for Trusted Adults
In legalised markets cannabis is legal for adult use, yet young people often lack access to open and balanced conversations about this substance. As a trusted adult, initiating meaningful discussions about cannabis with the young individuals in your life is crucial. Establishing an open and honest relationship can play a vital role in guiding them towards informed and safe choices. This article offers strategies to help you navigate these conversations effectively.
How to Talk to Youth About Cannabis:
Cannabis is one of the most commonly used substance amongst youth, following alcohol and tobacco. Despite its prevalence, creating an environment for open and balanced discussions about cannabis is essential. Building a strong, communicative relationship with a trusted adult, whether a parent or caregiver, significantly influences a young person’s ability to make informed decisions.
Key Strategies for Effective Communication:
Start Early: Initiate dialogue about cannabis at an early age. Research indicates that discussions are more impactful when they commence before a young person’s first encounter with cannabis, which typically occurs around the age of 14 according to epidemiological trends.
Talk Frequently and Openly: Foster casual and frequent conversations about cannabis. Instead of formal talks, seize opportunities that naturally arise, such as instances of drug use depicted in media. Utilise these moments to engage in open and honest discussions.
Provide Balanced Information: Avoid fear-based messaging, as it may not resonate with young individuals. Offer information grounded in facts rather than emotion, fostering a nuanced understanding of cannabis.
Be Aware of Bias: Recognise and set aside personal biases towards cannabis. Be mindful of how societal stigma around drug use intersects with issues of racism and marginalisation. Maintain an open and non-judgmental stance to ensure effective communication.
Engage in Two-Way Conversations: Encourage open-ended questions without judgment. Respect their thoughts, feelings, and opinions. Foster an environment where they feel comfortable sharing their perspectives.
Be Their Library: Direct them to credible evidence highlighting risk factors for youth and harm reduction strategies. Empower them to access accurate and non-judgmental health information, developing critical-thinking skills.
Responding to Cannabis Use:
Avoid Information Overload: Instead of overwhelming young individuals with information, foster a two-way conversation. Listen respectfully to their viewpoints, even if they differ from your own.
Addressing Cannabis Use: If they are already consuming cannabis, discuss risk reduction strategies, such as avoiding high-potency THC cultivars and formats, opting for safer consumption methods, and steering clear of synthetic cannabis.
Progressed Cannabis Use: If you suspect cannabis use has evolved beyond experimentation, remain calm. Encourage honesty about their consumption, avoiding invasive actions like searching personal belongings, which can damage trust.
Self-Medication Indicators: If cannabis use appears linked to self-medication, consider the possibility of underlying medical or mental health issues. Encourage them to consult with a counsellor or healthcare professional for non-judgmental discussions on cannabis use.
