4/20 Day and Youth Marijuana Use

Marijuana is legal in Montana for recreational and medical use. 4/20 Day celebrations promote a large and growing business. It has become another opportunity for cannabis companies to promote the industry and its products.

In many ways, it is similar to alcohol companies using the Super Bowl or St. Patrick's Day. At one time, 4/20 Day was a counterculture protest. Marijuana legalization undercut this as the business grows, sells, and markets marijuana. Like any other product, it will always require new clients.

It is hard to ignore the influence these celebrations have when celebrities, influencers, and businesses push their products and brands; social media provides a far reach.

Early prevention and education go a long way in helping youth make responsible choices and avoid drug use altogether.

"Age matters the first time someone uses marijuana. We are not saying that every teen becomes a hard-core drug user after first-time use. Yet, THC has addictive properties that young developing brains are more susceptible to," said Marcel Gemme of Addicted.org.

In Montana, nearly 12% of 12 to 17-year-olds reported using drugs in the last month. Among those teens, 77% reported using marijuana in the last month, according to the National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics.

Short and frequent conversations about marijuana and its associated risks have a real tangible impact on a youth's decision to use the drug. Consider some of the following pointers:

-Short and frequent conversations are more effective than one big talk. It helps to build strong relationships and good communication.

-Be a reliable source of factual information. If the data is unavailable, make an effort to search it out together.

-Show disapproval for underage marijuana use and make your values and rules clear while also reinforcing why it is important to avoid using the drug.

-Lead by example. Actions speak louder than words.

-Show genuine concern for their health, wellness, and success.

-Help them build skills to avoid peer pressure, practice scenarios, and rehearse what to say.

-Listen to their opinions and answer their questions; the conversation goes both ways. Avoid using scare tactics, threats, or lectures.

There are significant adverse effects associated with youth marijuana use. Early prevention efforts are the best approach any parent can take to help their kids make responsible choices.

Jody Boulay is a mother of two with a passion for helping others. She currently works as a Community Outreach Coordinator for Addicted.org to help spread awareness of the dangers of drugs and alcohol.