Prevention and education

Cannabis use often begins when people are young, so it is important to provide prevention and education initiatives that reduce the likelihood of people taking up the drug to begin with [23503]. The vulnerability of young people to cannabis use needs to be understood within the context of a commercial cannabis market that targets young people to foster positive attitudes toward cannabis use through social media [43145].

Encouraging young people to engage in programs and activities that keep them connected to their school, family, community and culture can help to protect them from harmful drug use including cannabis use [23508]. If people are already experimenting or using cannabis, it is helpful to provide accurate information in a non-judgemental way [43145]. Parents, caregivers, family members and teachers often have the best opportunity to provide this information.

For Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, it is important that prevention and education initiatives are co-designed, culturally responsive and reflect the broader social, cultural and emotional wellbeing needs of the community [33425].

Resources such as Positive choices provide evidence-based information about alcohol and other drugs, including cannabis, for parents, teachers and individuals. It features a section specifically for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. The Community Portal on the Alcohol and Other Drugs Knowledge Centre also has resources to support families and community members who want to address drug use.