Start the talk about cannabis.
The Law
The Trends
The Adolescent Brain
StartTheTalk.Org
As of July 1, 2020, possession of small amounts of cannabis is decriminalized in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
But this does not apply to teens.
Start the talk now with your teens. Make sure they know that cannabis has not been legalized and decriminalization does not apply to teens.
Know the Consequences of Teen Cannabis Use
- Cannabis can be addictive.
- Cannabis is unsafe if you are behind the wheel.
- Cannabis is linked to school failure, lower-income, and poor quality of life.
- Short-term effects (while using or right after using): include learning, attention, and memory problems; distorted perception (sights, sounds, time, touch); poor coordination and motor skills; increased heart rate; and anxiety.
- Long-term effects (effects of repeated use) include long-term learning and memory problems if heavy use begins during youth; risk for chronic cough, bronchitis; sleep problems, risk of schizophrenia in some people with higher genetic risk.
Tips for Parents
- Be a good listener.
- Set clear expectations about drug and alcohol use, including real consequences for not following family rules.
- Help your child deal with peer pressure to use drugs.
- Get to know your child’s friends and their parents.
- Monitor your child’s whereabouts.
- Supervise teen activities.
- Talk to your child often.
*Info on Cannabis and Teens provided by the CDC.
Helpful Links & Resources
The following links may help you navigate this process. Remember, parental involvement is key to reducing marijuana use!