Changes in sleep, friends, marks and mood can be early signs. How to respond without pushing your child away.
Cannabis (ganja) use among teenagers and young adults is a growing concern for many parents. It often starts with friends, out of curiosity or to cope with stress, and can be hidden from the family for months.
Signs to look out for
None of these alone proves drug use, but a pattern is worth taking seriously:
- Red eyes, an unusual sweet smell on clothes, or frequent use of eye drops and perfume
- Sleeping very late and waking late, or loss of interest in usual activities
- Falling marks, skipping classes, or losing a job
- New friends they do not want you to meet
- Money or valuables going missing
- Irritability, low mood, or unusual suspicion and fearfulness
Why it matters
The brain continues to develop into the mid-twenties. Regular cannabis use in young people has been linked to problems with memory, attention and motivation, and in some people it can trigger anxiety or psychosis. Young people who start early are also more likely to develop dependence.
How to respond
- Stay calm. Anger and punishment alone tend to push young people towards secrecy.
- Talk about what you have noticed, and ask what is going on in their life.
- Look for the reason behind the use: stress, exams, loneliness, anxiety or depression.
- Get a professional assessment. A confidential conversation with a psychiatrist can uncover problems that need treatment in their own right.
If you are worried, call us to talk it through, even before your son or daughter agrees to come.
This article is general information and not a substitute for advice from a doctor who has examined you.
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