If you are finding it difficult to raise the issue of mental health and cannabis, try talking about paranoia. Almost every child, regardless of whether they have had contact with cannabis or not, is aware that this is a side effect of using the drug. Although it may seem quite harmless, paranoia can actually be an early warning sign for friends of cannabis users, particularly if it starts slipping into the person’s everyday life.

Most teenagers want strategies to look after themselves and their friends. Asking them to be on the lookout for signs of possible mental health problems in their friends who use cannabis could be useful for to them and a great conversation starter.

Excerpt from “Teenagers, Alcohol and Drugs” by Paul Dillon.
Editor Ramesh Manocha.