Speaking to youth about cannabis use

Speaking to youth about cannabis use

What drives young people to use cannabis, especially in a post-legalisation world? That's the question tackled by host David P. Ball in this eye-opening episode of the Addiction Practice Pod. Joined by guests Apollo Collin-Gray and Dr. Anees Bahji, the conversation focuses on engaging youth in open, non-judgemental discussions about cannabis use. Apollo shares his personal journey with cannabis as a means of self-medication, especially when faced with barriers in the healthcare system due to his autism and gender identity.

He highlights how cannabis became a tool for managing pain and anxiety when traditional healthcare options felt inaccessible. Dr. Bahji brings a clinical perspective, emphasising the importance of understanding the motivations behind substance use. He discusses how cannabis often fills gaps in care for young people dealing with mental health challenges, like gender dysphoria and chronic pain. The episode also delves into the complexities of cannabis potency post-legalisation and its impact on youth.

Listeners will gain insight into the challenges faced by youth in accessing respectful healthcare and the role of cannabis as a coping mechanism. The episode is a call to healthcare providers to listen more and judge less, creating environments where young people feel safe to discuss their substance use openly. It's a powerful reminder that understanding the 'why' behind cannabis use is key to offering meaningful support. What can clinicians do to create safer spaces for youth discussing cannabis use?

Tune in to find out!