Is 4/20 Day Advertising Marijuana to Younger Generations?

Marijuana is legal in Florida, and the state follows federal law with regard to the drug. 4/20 Day remains a big event for many people. It has long moved past the counterculture protests of old to more of a commercial event to promote the industry and its products. 

One can argue that these events are advertising to younger generations. It’s hard to ignore when celebrities, influencers, and businesses push their products and brands. Marijuana companies are directly involved in large events like The Cannabis Cup, much like alcohol companies during the Super Bowl. 

Parents should take this opportunity to have constructive conversations with their kids about marijuana and its associated risks. 

“Age matters the first time someone uses marijuana. The teen brain is actively developing and continues to develop until age 25. Marijuana use adversely affects a developing brain,” said Marcel Gemme of Addicted.org. 

The marijuana industry is big; like any other business, it will always need new customers. A 2020 report found that the cannabis industry is expected to grow by 18.2% between 2019 and 2025; Florida ranks among the jurisdictions that will contribute the most. 

The short and frequent conversations that parents have with their kids about marijuana have a real tangible impact on their choices. Consider some of the following pointers:

• Make views and rules about marijuana use clear. Show disapproval for underage-age cannabis use. Parents are the leading influence on a child’s decision to use drugs or not. 
• Be a reliable source of information and search out the answers together. 
• Show genuine care about their health, wellness, and success and reinforce why they should avoid using marijuana. 
• Avoid lecturing, threatening, or using scare tactics. Pay attention to what they are up to and let them see this, as it does help reduce risky behaviors. 
• Help build their skills to avoid peer pressure, rehearse scenarios, and practice what to say. 
• Ask their opinions and answer their questions; the conversation goes both ways. 
• Lead by example; actions speak louder than words. 

There are adverse effects of marijuana use at a young age. Among teens, it can lead to difficulty thinking and problem-solving, problems with memory and learning, reduced coordination, difficulty maintaining attention, and issues with school and social life. In addition, it can lead to increased mental health issues and addiction. 

Legalization has changed marijuana into a massive business. Early prevention and education efforts go a long way to preventing drug use altogether. Parents should consider having these conversations early.

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.