What Are You PASSING ON?

01 / The perception

It might look like everyone. It’s not.

When cannabis use is visible in our homes, social circles, media and communities, it can be easy for young people to believe that “everyone is doing it.”

But perception isn't reality. Most young people choose to pass on cannabis.

Helping young people understand what their peers are actually doing can take away the pressure to fit in and remind them that choosing to pass on cannabis is a normal choice.

Pass on
the facts. WHAT ARE YOU PASSING ON?

“The example starts with us.”

For parents & adults

02 / For parents & adults

They’re watching more than you think.

Young people learn from more than what we tell them.

They watch what adults do. They hear how we talk about cannabis. And they notice when something is treated as harmless, funny or just part of everyday life.

When adults normalize cannabis, young people may be more likely to see it as acceptable or low-risk.

Before you use, talk about cannabis, or make it part of your everyday routine, consider the message you're sending.

What are you passing on?

03 / The facts

Common doesn’t mean harmless.

Cannabis can affect young people differently than adults because the brain continues developing into the mid-20s.

Cannabis use during adolescence has been associated with effects on:

The more young people understand the facts, the better equipped they are to make informed choices. Pass on the facts.

get the facts

Memory & learning

Attention & concentration

Decision-making

Coordination & reaction time

Mental health

04 / Talk to your kids

Start the conversation.

Talking about cannabis doesn't have to be a lecture. Start by asking questions. Listen to what your child thinks. Talk about what they're seeing at school, online and among friends. Then share the facts.

You don't have to have all the answers. Starting the conversation matters.

tips for talking with youth

Try asking

“What do kids your age think about cannabis?”

“Do you think most kids use it?”

“Have you ever felt like you were expected to try it?”

“What would you do if someone offered it?”

05 / For youth

You can pass.
Without missing out.

Someone offers you cannabis.
You don't have to take it.
You don't have to explain yourself.
And you definitely don't have to use it just because you think everyone else is.

Most young people choose to pass on cannabis. Passing isn't missing out. It's making your own choice.

Pass on cannabis. Hold on to what matters.

06 / Find support & resources

Looking for more support?

Whether you're a parent looking for prevention information, a young person looking for support, or someone who wants help making a change, there are resources available.

01 / YOUTH SUPPORT