Learning a different meaning for 4/20
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Marcel Gemme is the founder of SUPE and has been helping people struggling with substance use for over 20 years.
Currently, the possession of small amounts of cannabis in Florida is illegal, along with its sale and delivery. Yet, a cannabis legalization ballot will go before voters in the November 2024 election.
Despite the legal status of cannabis in Florida, 4/20 celebrations are common. While it not as widespread as in states where cannabis is legal, it is still a widely celebrated counter-culture holiday.
Across much of the country, recreational marijuana has become more mainstream. As a result, it can have a greater influence on young people, but drug education can help. Children and students, for example, may have more questions about cannabis, which makes this an ideal time for parents and educators to incorporate more drug education.
According to a 2023 Florida Youth Substance Abuse Survey, the past 30-day prevalence of marijuana use among high school students has been on the decline since 2018. 2023 data shows a continuation in the long-term reduction in marijuana use. The past 30-day use has dropped from 18% in 2014 to 10% in 2023. Much of this change could be attributed to successful drug education and prevention campaigns.
Parents and educators can continue this trend and help answer questions about cannabis and 4/20. For instance, keep 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 and 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. Ask them what they know about cannabis and answer their questions; the conversation goes both ways.
It’s okay to set rules, guidelines, and expectations; 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 helping them make good choices as they age. Educators and parents can positively impact the choices of children and students.
Marcel Gemme is the founder of SUPE and has been helping people struggling with substance use for over 20 years. The work focuses on a threefold approach: education, prevention, and rehabilitation.
