Rebecca Haines-Saah

No, cannabis is not considered a gateway drug by most modern scientific research. The idea that using cannabis leads directly to using so-called “harder” drugs, like cocaine or heroin was first proposed decades ago, but it has been widely challenged and largely debunked. 

There’s no biological or genetic pathway that proves cannabis use causes someone to move on to other illegal drugs, but there is some evidence that early cannabis use “primes” the brain for later nicotine addiction. Instead, it’s more likely that cannabis is simply one of the first substances people try, often after alcohol or tobacco, simply because it’s more accessible. 

Research shows that many factors influence addiction and drug use, including genetics, mental health, social environment, and access to substances. Saying cannabis alone causes someone to use other drugs oversimplifies a much more complex issue. In fact, some studies suggest cannabis may even help people reduce or replace the use of other substances, like opioids or alcohol. 
 

References:

A Brief History Of The False Myth About Cannabis As A Gateway Drug
Why cannabis shouldn't be considered a gateway drug: Calgary professor debunks marijuana myths
Marijuana not a gateway drug, says UVic study

While we can’t specify an age starting cannabis use early, especially before the age of 16 can increase the risk of long-term problems. 

Canadian research shows that teens who start using early may be more likely to develop cannabis use disorder (CUD), struggle in school and may be more likely to have a higher risk of anxiety, depression and psychosis. These risks increase if use is frequent and high-THC products are used. 

While not everyone who uses cannabis early will have problems, studies show that early use, being male and using other substances like tobacco are strong risk factors for more serious cannabis-related issues later in life. 
 

References:

Canada’s Lower-Risk Cannabis Use Guidelines – Health Canada
Canadian Paediatric Society: Cannabis and Youth 
Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction: Cannabis Drug Summary
A Guide to the National Academy of Science Report on Cannabis: An Exclusive Discussion with Panel Members

Young adults often turn to cannabis for different reasons, and their relationships and mental health can play a big role. Supportive families, trusted adults, and positive friendships can help young people make healthier choices and reduce risky cannabis use.

On the other hand, stress, anxiety, depression, or feeling isolated can increase the chances of using cannabis to cope. Some youth say they use cannabis to relax, deal with boredom, or manage mental health symptoms, but this can sometimes make those problems worse over time.

Resources: 

Mental Health Commission of Canada – Cannabis and Youth 
Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction – Effects of Cannabis Use During Adolescence 
Journal of Child and Family Studies – Parent and Peer Influences
Canadian Paediatric Society – Counselling Adolescents and Parents About Cannabis
University of Victoria – Parent and Peer Influences

Harm reduction means making safer choices to lower the risks of cannabis use. For young adults, this can include:

• Choosing lower-THC products: High-potency cannabis increases the risk of mental health issues and addiction.
• Avoiding smoking: Using edibles or oils instead of smoking can reduce harm to your lungs.
• Limiting frequency: Using cannabis less often lowers the chance of long-term problems.
• Avoiding mixing with other substances: Combining cannabis with alcohol or other drugs can increase risks.
• Using in safe environments: Being with trusted people in a safe space can reduce the chance of accidents or unwanted outcomes.
• Talking to a trusted adult or healthcare provider: Getting accurate information and support can help you make informed choices.

A 2012 study found that after just one brief education session, nearly 70% of university students reported a change in how they thought about or used cannabis. This shows that even small conversations can make a big difference.
 

Resources: 

CAMH – Lower-Risk Cannabis Use Guidelines for Youth
Get Sensible – Cannabis Education Resources
YouthREX – Sensible Cannabis Education Booklet

No, harm reduction doesn’t promote cannabis use, it’s a practical approach that addresses that people have different values and opinions about cannabis. Whether you choose to use it or not, harm reduction tips can help you understand the risks and make healthier choices.

A common misunderstanding about harm reduction is that it encourages use or stands in the way of recovery. In reality, harm reduction is about meeting people where they’re at, whether they use cannabis (or other substances) or not and supporting safer, informed choices. You don’t need to be struggling with cannabis or planning to use it to benefit from harm reduction strategies. It’s about equipping yourself with practical tools and knowledge to reduce potential harms and promote well-being.

Fear based or scare tactics may work for some, but messages that use fear to try to stop young people from using cannabis—don’t usually work well. Teens are naturally curious and more likely to take risks, especially during adolescence. If a message feels exaggerated or unrealistic, they may tune it out or even become more interested in trying cannabis to see for themselves.

Instead of using fear, education works best when it’s honest, respectful, and based on facts. Young adults are more likely to listen when they feel trusted and supported, not judged. Harm reduction approaches give young people the tools and information they need to make safer choices whether they use cannabis or not.

Everyone’s values and experiences are different. Whether someone chooses to use or not, learning how to reduce harm helps them stay informed and make healthier decisions.

Resources:

CAMH – Lower-Risk Cannabis Use Guidelines for Youth
Get Sensible – Cannabis Education Resources
Education Development Center – Not Your Mother’s Scare Tactics
Prevention Action Alliance – Scare Tactics Fact Sheet

Talking about cannabis with youth can feel tricky, but it’s important and it doesn’t have to be perfect. The goal is to keep the conversation open, honest, and ongoing. Here are some helpful strategies:

• Start early and keep talking: You don’t need to wait for a problem to start the conversation. Talking regularly builds trust.
• Be curious, not judgmental: Ask questions and listen. Try to understand their views and experiences without jumping to conclusions.
• Use facts, not fear: Share accurate information about risks and benefits. Scare tactics often backfire and shut down communication.
• Make it a two-way conversation: Let them ask questions and share their thoughts. It’s not just about giving advice it’s about connecting.
• Focus on safety and decision-making: Talk about harm reduction strategies and how to make safer choices if they do decide to use.
• Be a trusted adult: Whether you're a parent, teacher, or mentor, being approachable and informed makes a big difference.

Resources: 

CCSA – Youth Substance Use Communication Guide
Alberta Health Services – DrugSafe Handbook for Parents

Start with support and connect with respect. These conversations aren’t one-and-done, they should be an ongoing practice.

Young people are naturally curious, and they may have different beliefs or experiences with cannabis. That’s why it’s important to be open-minded, non-judgmental, and ready to listen. When your young person feels safe to share, they’re more likely to ask questions and engage in honest conversations.

Here are a few helpful tips:

• Begin early and keep it age-appropriate: Building trust over time makes it easier to talk about tough topics.
• Admit what you don’t know: It’s okay not to have all the answers. Learning together can strengthen your connection.
• Use real facts, not fear: Scare tactics often shut down conversations. Honest, respectful information builds understanding.
• Focus on safety and decision-making: Whether they choose to use or not, help them understand how to reduce harm and make informed choices.

Resources: 

CCSA – Youth Substance Use Communication Guide
Alberta Health Services – DrugSafe Handbook for Parents

Talking about cannabis looks different depending on a child’s age and that’s okay. What matters most is starting early, being honest, and keeping the conversation going as they grow.

Here are some general tips:

• For younger children (elementary age): Keep it simple. Focus on safety, making healthy choices, and how substances can affect the body and brain.
• For middle schoolers: Talk about roles of friends, curiosity, and how cannabis can affect learning, emotions, and decision-making.
• For teens and young adults: Be open and respectful. Share facts about risks, benefits, and harm reduction. Let them ask questions and express their views.

You don’t need to have all the answers. What matters most is being a trusted adult they can talk to.

Resources:

Alberta Health Services – DrugSafe Handbook (see page 15 for age-specific tips)