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]. If people are already experimenting or using cannabis, it is important to provide accurate information in a non-judgemental way. Parents, caregivers, family members and teachers often have the best opportunity to provide this information.

Resources such as Positive choices provide evidence-based information about alcohol and other drugs, including cannabis, for parents, teachers and individuals. The Community Portal on the Knowledge Centre also has resources to support families and community members who want to address drug use.

Keeping young people engaged in programs and activities that keep them connected to their school, family, community and culture can help to protect young people from harmful drug use including cannabis use [23508].