TALKING WITH 

YOUR TEEN ABOUT

MARIJUANA:

Keeping Your Kids Safe

Another telling sign is the presence of drug 

paraphernalia—any equipment, product, or 

material of any kind that is modified for making, 

using, or concealing a controlled substance. 

Examples of drug paraphernalia include the 

following:

• Rolling paper (a specialty paper used for

making a marijuana cigarette);

• Cigar (hollowed out and filled with marijuana

to make what is referred to as a “blunt”);

• Pipe (a device to smoke marijuana);

• Bong (a filtration device to smoke marijuana);

• Roach clip (a metal clip used to hold a

marijuana cigarette);

• Electronic cigarette (a device to smoke

marijuana extracts); and

• Grinder (a tool that breaks marijuana up into

smaller bits).

TAKE ACTION

Use these tips to talk with your teen:

• Check in frequently to see how they

are doing;

• Choose informal times to talk, such

as in the car, during dinner, or while

watching TV;

• Be clear and consistent about your

expectations regarding marijuana and

other drug use;

• Establish family agreements together for

social and extracurricular activities;

• Let them know you care and are always

there for them; and

• Continue talking with your teens as they

get older.

Help your teen create an “exit plan” in 

case he or she is offered or faced with a 

difficult decision about marijuana. Peer 

pressure can be powerful, so coming up with 

realistic action steps and practicing them 

together in a safe environment will prepare 

and empower your teen to make good 

choices when it matters.

Research suggests that one of the most 

influential factors when a teen is growing 

up is a strong, open relationship with a 

parent or caregiver.

For more information about how to talk with 

your teen about marijuana, visit 

www.underagedrinking.samhsa.gov

and 

www.samhsa.gov.

www.underagedrinking.samhsa.gov

#TalkTheyHearYou

PEP20-03-01-004
It’s never too late to start talking with your teen 

about the risks of marijuana use. As teens age, 

they make more decisions on their own and face 

greater temptation and peer pressure. Though 

it may not seem like it, teens really do hear your 

concerns. It’s important you help them understand 

what marijuana is, and why they shouldn’t use it.

WHAT IS MARIJUANA?

Marijuana refers to the dried leaves, flowers, 

stems, and seeds from the Cannabis sativa or 

Cannabis indica plant. It is a psychoactive drug 

that contains close to 500 chemicals, including 

THC, a mind-altering compound that causes 

harmful health effects. Marijuana use is prevalent 

among teens and young adults, and according 

to SAMHSA’s 2018 National Survey on Drug Use 

and Health, an estimated 3.1 million youths ages 

12–17 reported using marijuana in 2018.

Marijuana use tends to increase with age. While 

1.8 percent of youths ages 12–13 reported 

consuming marijuana in the past year, that 

number increased to 11.3 percent of those ages 

14–15 and 23.4 percent by ages 15–16. 

WHY ARE YOUNG PEOPLE 

USING MARIJUANA?

Teens and young adults use marijuana for many 

reasons, including curiosity, peer pressure, and 

wanting to fit in with friends. Some use it to 

cope with anxiety, stress, and even depression. 

Ultimately, many things factor into why some 

people decide to use marijuana, including 

their environment at home, at school, and in 

the community. 

The perception of the dangers of marijuana use is 

declining and, increasingly, young people today 

do not consider marijuana use a risky behavior. 

This is partially due to the changes to some 

states’ policies on the legalization of marijuana 

and recreational use. Marijuana remains illegal at 

the federal level, even though many states have 

legalized its use.

Make sure your teen understands that marijuana 

is addictive. In fact, research shows that 1 in 6 

youths who start using the drug before the age of 

18 can become addicted. 

HOW ARE YOUNG PEOPLE 

USING MARIJUANA?

Marijuana can be consumed in a variety of 

ways—including smoking, vaping, oils, teas, and 

edibles. Edibles have become popular because 

people can mix marijuana into their favorite foods, 

such as brownies, cookies, and candy. However, 

edibles are dangerous because they can lead to 

accidental ingestion or overconsumption. Since 

it takes longer to digest edibles and feel their 

effects, people may consume more at one time to 

expedite that process.

KNOW THE RISKS AND HARMS 

OF MARIJUANA USE

Marijuana use among teens and young adults 

can harm brain development and cause other 

negative impacts. Additionally, the amount of 

THC in marijuana has steadily climbed; today’s 

marijuana has three times the concentration of 

THC compared to 25 years ago, increasing the 

impact on the brain. Make sure you know the risks 

of marijuana use and are prepared to talk with 

your teen about them. 

Common risks include, but are not limited to:

• Issues with attention, concentration, problem

solving, learning, and memory;

• Poor academic and job performance;

• Lack of balance and coordination;

• Poor judgment and decision-making;

• Less life satisfaction;

• Relationship problems;

• Increased risk of mental issues; and

• Potential for addiction.

IDENTIFY THE SIGNS

Recognizing signs of marijuana use can be 

difficult if you don’t know what to look for. Be 

aware of any noticeable changes in your teen’s 

behavior, as it might indicate he or she is using 

marijuana. 

Common signs include, but are not limited to:

• Unusual laughing, coordination issues, or

forgetfulness;

• Bloodshot eyes or repeated use of eye drops;

• Strange smelling clothes or bedroom;

• Frequent use of incense and other

deodorizers;

• Drug-themed clothing, jewelry, or décor; and

• Unexplained lack of money or frequent

requests for money.