How do you encourage young people to not use cannabis? With the new law legalizing adult use of cannabis, now is the time to talk! This handout explains how, shared in both English and Spanish.
Although adult-use cannabis is now legal in Connecticut, it is still illegal for people under the age of 21 to use it, and for good reason. Just because something is legal doesn’t mean it’s safe.
Studies have found that cannabis impacts the developing brain, impairing judgment, memory, and coordination. It also can have negative effects on mental health, particularly in teenagers. According to the Partnership to End Addiction, using a cannabis product with a THC potency of over 15% is linked to a three-fold increase in the likelihood of experiencing mental health and other problems.”
This danger is compounded by the fact that cannabis products are now stronger than ever. Newly formulated concentrates, extracts, and other products can have upwards of 90% THC. That’s compared to an average THC concentration of 2% before 1990.
The Partnership is committed to providing up-to-date resources for parents, mentors, and other caring adults on cannabis, so that they can talk to young people about the very real harms of using this substance at a young age.
The Governor’s Prevention Partnership builds statewide capacity to prevent underage drinking and substance use and builds strategic alliances to promote the overall well-being of Connecticut’s future workforce.