Having a candid discussion about your cannabis use with your family can be intimidating. By approaching the discussion rationally, honesty around cannabis can foster a healthy relationship and trust with your family.
Assess Your Motivation
Before having this discussion, it’s important to first think about the reasons why you want to say something. Are you trying to be honest in your relationship, or looking to receive support? Are you trying to address the discomfort of keeping a secret? Being aware of why you have this discussion will assist you communicate with family better, but also can help you determine when or if this is even something you want to disclose.
Find the Right Timing
Timing is very important. Try to avoid moments that are stressful, when there are family arguments or in times of extreme emotionality. You want to look for times when things are relaxing and private, to be able to have a one-on-one discussion. Consider times to talk in the comfort of home, with everyone in a comfortable setting.
Build Your Points
Come prepared with accurate information about cannabis, including why it is legal in you state, the benefits, and the psychosocial implications of responsible use. Be ready to discuss mainstream points concerning health, motivation, and legality. Respect their initial reaction may be negative and prepare to be polite and calm.
Begin by indicating that you want to share your actual thoughts and feelings with them. Indicate that you understand this might be difficult for them, and what they think about it is important to you. Try not to take a defensive stand, even when the pushback appears to have outdated thinking in their comments of misunderstanding and concern.
Directly Address Their Concerns
Parents usually have general assessments of cannabis and consider their health implications, legality, and impact on where you are at with goals and relationships. When seeing through the good and bad of discussion concerning parents and cannabis, come prepared to convey how you use it responsibly, and find ways to keep up with all commitments and responsibilities expected. Share specific illustrative examples you have to ensure cannabis use lines up with your information and weigh in on calendar obligations.
Define Boundaries and Expectations
Make sure you establish your boundaries around the topic, while paying respect to theirs. If they need space or time to digest this information, give it to them. Set expectations for what sort of discussion they’re willing to have about cannabis usage in general, and be flexible about what you’re willing to discuss.
Be Patient With the Process
Be aware that acceptance of this information about you won’t happen immediately. Your parents will need time to change their information about you and reconcile a somewhat incongruous start to it all. Keep moving in and demonstrating personal responsibility in all areas of your life. Remain open for future parents and weed conversations.