Since the legalization of cannabis in Canada, it has become mainstream. It’s a growing business. In most major cities and small towns, 4/20 events are taking place. Marijuana businesses use this as an opportunity to promote the industry and its products. It’s similar to alcohol companies using the Super Bowl or St. Patrick’s Day.
Ignoring the influence is hard when celebrities, influencers, and companies push brands and products. Social media has a broad reach. This is something that parents should be aware of, and they should have constructive conversations with their kids about marijuana and its associated risks.
“Prevention and education work and can ultimately prevent drug use altogether. It also provides youth with reliable information to help them make avoid bad situations,” said Marcel Gemme, owner, and founder of .
Before legalization, Saskatchewan youth had the third highest prevalence of in Canada. Among students in grades 7 through 12, one in three reported using marijuana once or more per week, and the average age of initiation was 16, according to the Canadian Center on Substance Use and Addiction.
Parents’ conversations with their kids about marijuana have a real tangible impact. Consider some of the following tips:
- Lots of little talks are more effective than one big talk. Short and frequent discussions help build trust and strong relationships.
- Be a reliable source of factual information. Listen to their opinions and answer their questions.
- Avoid lecturing, threatening, or using scare tactics.
- When speaking about marijuana, make your views and rules clear; be honest and straightforward.
- Help them build skills to avoid and manage peer pressure; rehearse scenarios.
- Lead by example; actions speak louder than words.
It’s ok to show disapproval of underage marijuana use and reinforce why they should avoid it altogether. Parents have a significant influence over their children’s decisions to experiment with cannabis products.
The reality is there are adverse effects of using marijuana at this age. The teen brain is actively developing and continues to grow until age 25. THC has addictive properties, which a young growing brain is more susceptible to.
The adverse effects can include difficulty thinking and problem-solving, problems with memory and learning, reduced coordination, difficulty maintaining attention, and issues with school and social life. There is also an increased risk of mental health issues and a potential for addiction.
4/20 events showcase how big the industry is becoming across Canada and the United States. This is something that parents should be aware of and make it a habit of talking to their kids about the risks and help keep them informed.
Jody Boulay is a mother of two with a passion for helping others. She currently works as a Community Outreach Co-ordinator for Addicted.org to help spread awareness of the dangers of drugs and alcohol.
