Empowering Conversations: A Guide to Non-Judgmental Harm Reduction Messaging for Youth

When discussing cannabis with young individuals, adopting a harm reduction approach is essential. Offering evidence-based information without judgment provides a foundation for informed decision-making. This guide aims to empower adults to engage in open conversations about the risks of cannabis with youth, emphasising harm reduction principles.

A Guide to Non-Judgmental Harm Reduction Messaging for Youth

Understanding the Approach:

• The traditional abstinence and fear-based messages are ineffective for today’s youth. A harm reduction approach fosters open conversations, acknowledging the diverse reasons for cannabis use.

Exploring Risks:

• Abandoning the notion that cannabis is “harmless” or “just a plant,” the guide emphasises evidence-backed risks, especially for the developing brain. Understanding potential effects, cannabis use disorder, impaired driving, mental health concerns, and mixing with other substances are key components.

Harm Reduction Principles:

• Start low, go slow: Encourages beginning with the lowest dose and waiting before consuming more.

• Consider appropriate time and place: Emphasises responsible use by choosing suitable times and settings.

• Choose less risky products: Advocates avoiding high-potency cannabis products to reduce potential harm.

• Choose safer consumption: Promotes alternative methods like vaporizing or consuming edibles to mitigate health risks.

• If you do smoke, use safer methods: Dispels myths about deep inhalation and encourages responsible smoking practices.

• Keep amounts and frequency low: Advises against daily consumption, recommending weekends or limited use.

• Choose plant products over synthetic: Discourages the use of synthetic cannabis products associated with severe health issues.

• Consume only one substance: Highlights the risks of mixing cannabis with alcohol or tobacco.

• Have a safe transportation plan: Stresses the importance of waiting before driving and avoiding rides from recently cannabis-consuming individuals.

• Consider other risk factors: Encourages awareness of personal health history and vulnerability to mental health issues.

Signs of Risky or Harmful Use:

• The guide identifies four signs to watch for: consuming regularly at an early age, using during school or work, consuming to cope with negative moods, and behavioural changes like ignoring responsibilities and becoming secretive.

Available Resources:

• Acknowledging that individuals are not alone, the guide encourages the use of resources like Sensible Cannabis Education Booklets. These resources provide friendly advice for all ages, promoting informed discussions about cannabis use.

By adopting a non-judgmental harm reduction approach, adults can facilitate open conversations with youth about cannabis, equipping them with evidence-based information to make informed and safe choices. Empowering individuals with knowledge and understanding fosters a supportive environment for healthier decisions regarding cannabis use.