Drug education is useful during 4/20 day

By Marcel Gemme
Guest columnist

In 2023, Ohio became the 24th state to legalize cannabis for adults 21 and older. In 2024, the state began proposing rules and requirements for legal cannabis businesses using regulations from other states as a guide. The existing medical marijuana dispensaries in Ohio could be licensed to sell adult-use cannabis as soon as June, and recreational dispensaries could have licenses perhaps by September, according to local news reports. 

4/20 events this year are happening across the state, including some new and annual events. Like many other states, recreational cannabis is becoming more and more mainstream in Ohio. As 4/20 events grow year over year, drug education remains valuable and helpful for children and teens, as they may have questions. 

Young people are often exposed to cannabis culture early in life, whether through peer groups, social media, or adults in their lives who use recreational cannabis. Parents and educators play an essential role and can use effective drug education to help children and teens understand the risks of using marijuana at a young age. 

According to state substance use data, among high school students in Ohio, marijuana use is most prevalent among 12th graders. The highest prevalence of past 30-day marijuana use among adults was those aged 19 to 24, nearly 28%. The larger metropolitan areas in the state had higher rates of marijuana use, while Williams County was in the region of the state with the lowest rates of past 30-day marijuana use. 

When parents and educators speak about drug education, for instance, they can keep the conversations age-appropriate. Speaking with a five-year-old is much different than speaking with a teenager. Use language and examples a child or teen would understand. Teach them about the dangers and what to avoid. 

Most importantly, put yourself in your kid's shoes. This can be especially important for teenagers as they face different social pressures and situations at school or through social media. Make a point of understanding what they are up against. 

When speaking to them about cannabis, stay calm and relaxed, stay positive, don’t lecture, and be clear and concise about rules and boundaries without using scare tactics or threats. 

However, it’s ok to set rules, guidelines, and expectations and create rules together as a family or class. Parents and educators can be clear about the consequences without using scare tactics or lecturing; clearly state what you expect regarding cannabis use. 

Choose informal times to have conversations about cannabis, and do not make a big thing about it. Yet, continue talking to them as they age, and let them know you are always there for them.     

Finally, speak to them about peer pressure and talk with them about having an exit plan when they are offered marijuana. Peer pressure is powerful among youth, and having a plan to avoid drug use helps children and students make better choices. Ultimately, it is about assisting them to make good choices as they age.

Marcel Gemme is the founder of SUPE and has been helping people struggling with substance use for over 20 years. His work focuses on a threefold approach: education, prevention, and rehabilitation.