We know there is probably some pressure to start smoking pot or taking other drugs at school. A lot of people feel like this is just what high school kids do. But not all high school kids use drugs. Many don’t, which means it won’t make you weird to choose not to try marijuana. Just know that you can talk to us about anything – we won’t freak out. We want you to count on us to help you make smart decisions and stay safe, okay? Use us as the reason to say NO, if you are ever asked to try marijuana. Say something like, “I’d get in a ton of trouble if my parents (or my coach/sponsor) found out I tried pot.”
WHAT TO SAY if your teen says that Marijuana isn’t harmful, it’s a plant, and people use it as medicine:
Yes, marijuana can be prescribed by a doctor to help with pain and other discomforts. However, use of marijuana without a doctor’s prescription is illegal. People who use medical marijuana can face adverse side-effects and using marijuana can lead to serious diseases, like lung and heart dis-ease. Abusing marijuana can also be dangerous and can affect more than just you. We want you to know the facts about marijuana, so you can make the right choice.
WHAT TO SAY if your teen comes home smelling of marijuana:
"The response should be measured, quiet and serious--not yelling, shouting or overly emotional,” says parenting expert Marybeth Hicks. “Your child should realize that this isn’t just a frustrating moment like when he/she doesn’t do a chore you asked for; it’s very big, very important, and very serious.”
I’m really upset that you’re using marijuana. I need to get a handle on how often this has been happening. I get that you’re worried about being in trouble, but the worst part of that moment is over – I know that you’re experimenting. The best thing you can do now is to be straight with me. So, for starters, tell me what’s going on. After the conversation, its time to set a consequence. Discuss a reasonable consequence with your teen, perhaps a loss of privileges (cell phone, ski pass, allowance, sleepovers, SPORTS). Whatever is set, make sure to stand by it!
