by Recovery Alberta – Community Health Promotion Services
Cannabis or other common names including, marijuana, weed, or pot, is a drug that comes from a plant that contains over 100 compounds. The two common compounds are THC and CBD which have completely different effects on the body, but both affect how you think, feel, and act. Cannabis can be smoked, vaped, consumed by eating or drinking, and absorbed through the skin.
Having conversations with a young person may be uncomfortable or difficult to know where or how to begin. Below are some key areas to focus on:
- Discussions: When is the right time to start having these conversations? Well, it is known that discussions about substances should begin as early as 12 years or earlier when appropriate. Educating yourself on how the substance is used and why it may be popular is the first step.
- Try To Understand Why: There are many reasons why a young person may decide to use substances, which can include coping, curiosity, or peer pressure. Ask questions and try to understand why they want to use and what they know about the substance.
- Set Clear Expectations: It is known that youth succeed with consistency. Be clear with your expectations of “no use of substances” while keeping in mind that you still want to be the support they come to. Role modeling and applying the same expectations for yourself will support with maintaining consistency.
