Pennsylvania is moving toward legalizing recreational marijuana for adults. Gov. Josh Shapiro's latest budget address called for the legalization and regulation of adult-use cannabis. We aim to start selling at each store from January.
Even though recreational marijuana is legal in the state, many parts of the state still hold 4/20 Day celebrations. Giving cannabis culture enthusiasts, consumers, and retailers an opportunity to celebrate cannabis culture.
As cannabis becomes more mainstream, it's also affecting young people. This can come from peer groups, social media, pop culture, or adults who are cannabis users.
Parents and educators play an important role and can leverage effective drug education to help young people understand the risks associated with using cannabis at a young age.
According to the 2022 Cannabis Brief, there were 131 medical marijuana dispensaries in the state in 2021, and medical marijuana patients made up 4.6% of the population. In the 2019 Youth Survey, 31.7% of 12th graders reported a willingness to try marijuana, up from 30.8% in 2017. More 10th and 12th grade students report using marijuana than tobacco for both lifetime and short-term use.
Drug education can be conducted at any time. For example, try to have conversations that are age-appropriate. Talking to a 5-year-old is very different than talking to a teenager. Use language and examples that children and teens can understand. Please tell me about the dangers and things to avoid.
The most important thing is to put yourself in your child's shoes. This is especially important for teens who face social pressures and situations through school and social media. Try to understand what they are up against.
When talking to them about cannabis, stay calm, relaxed, keep a positive attitude, and don't get preachy. Make your boundaries clear and concise without using intimidation tactics or threats.
However, it's okay to set rules, guidelines, and expectations and create them together as a family or class. Parents and educators have a clear understanding of the results without lecturing. Be clear about your expectations regarding cannabis use.
Choose a casual time for conversations about cannabis, and don't overstate things. But even as you get older, keep talking to them and let them know you'll always be there for them.
Finally, talk about peer pressure and discuss your exit plan if you're offered marijuana. Peer pressure is strong among young people, so creating a plan to avoid drug use can help children and students make better choices. The ultimate goal is to help them make good choices as they age.
Marcel Gemme is the founder of SUPE – Substance Abuse Prevention Education. His work focuses on education, prevention and rehabilitation.
