What should I do if I find out that my child is using cannabis

What should I do if my child is using cannabis?

Don't panic and try not to overreact. A hostile confrontation won’t help. Get the facts about drugs so you can begin to talk with your child about them. Tell them what you have learned. Be open with your child about how you feel about their drug use. Try to keep the lines of communication open – better to know than not!

Here are some approaches to try:

Weigh up the situation.
Focus on the positive things about them and the potential they have. Explain how drugs can disrupt their dreams and hopes for their future.
Point out that cannabis is illegal and what might happen if they get caught. Discuss the risks and possible effects on their health or school work.
Keep on eye on what they’re doing and who their friends are. Get interested in things they enjoy.
If they got the drug at school, tell the principal.

Try to agree a plan for the future that will help them to not use again. This might involve:

spending time differently
avoiding certain places
learning to be more assertive in certain situations
seeking counselling if they need it