Column: Drug education can help young people during 4/20 Day

Oregon decriminalized small amounts of cannabis in 1973, and by 1998, the state approved cannabis for medical use.

In 2014, Oregon became the fourth state to legalize adult-use cannabis. By 2022, the sitting Governor pardoned over 47,000 possession of cannabis convictions and forgave more than $14 million in fees and fines.

4/20 Day is a big celebration in the state. Portland has been known as one of the top cannabis tourism destinations in the nation. Cannabis culture and use are mainstream in the state, and the market grows continually.

Children and teens can often be exposed to cannabis culture early, whether through peer groups, social media, or adults in their lives using recreational marijuana and may have questions. Parents and educators can play an important role and use drug education to help children and teens understand the risks of using marijuana at a young age.

According to the Oregon Health Authority, overall youth use of marijuana in Oregon has remained unchanged. Yet, youth vaping of marijuana increased 295% between 2017 and 2019. Between 8th and 11th graders, the current use of marijuana has been on the decline since 2012. Vaping products are appealing to young people, and there are significant risks.

When parents and educators speak to their kids about cannabis, keep the conversations age-appropriate. Speaking with a five-year-old is much different than speaking with a teenager. Use language and examples a child or teen would understand. Teach them about the dangers and what to avoid.

Most importantly, put yourself in your kid's shoes. This can be especially important for teenagers as they face different social pressures and situations at school or through social media. Make a point of understanding what they are up against.

When speaking to them about cannabis, stay calm and relaxed, stay positive, don’t lecture, and be clear and concise about boundaries without using scare tactics or threats.

However, it’s ok to set rules, guidelines, and expectations and create rules together as a family or class. Parents and educators can be clear about the consequences without using scare tactics or lecturing; clearly state what you expect regarding cannabis use.

Choose informal times to have conversations about cannabis, and do not make a big thing about it. Yet, continue talking to them as they age, and let them know you are always there for them.

Finally, speak to them about peer pressure and talk with them about having an exit plan when they are offered marijuana. Peer pressure is powerful among youth, and having a plan to avoid drug use helps children and students make better choices. Ultimately, it is about assisting them to make good choices as they age.

Marcel Gemme is the founder of SUPE and has been helping people struggling with substance use for over 20 years. His work focuses on a threefold approach: education, prevention, and rehabilitation.