Cannabis: What Young People and Parents Need to Know
Cannabis is one of the most commonly used substances among young people, and in recent years we have seen changes in how it is used, how strong it is, and how easy it is to access.
At Youth Unity, young people regularly talk to us about cannabis — sometimes seeing it as “normal”, “natural”, or less risky than other drugs. However, cannabis can have serious short- and long-term impacts, particularly on young people whose brains are still developing.
This page explains what cannabis is, why young people may use it, the risks involved, and what parents and carers should look out for.
What Is Cannabis?
Cannabis is a drug made from the cannabis plant and is most often:
Smoked in joints
Used in vapes
Mixed into food or sweets (edibles)
The main psychoactive ingredient is THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which affects mood, thinking, memory and coordination.
Today’s cannabis is often much stronger than in previous years, meaning the effects can be more intense and the risks higher.
Why Do Young People Use Cannabis?
Young people tell us they may use cannabis because:
Friends are using it
They believe it helps with stress or anxiety
It feels socially normalised
It is easier to access than many adults realise
They think it is safer than other drugs
Unfortunately, this can lead to regular use without fully understanding the consequences.
Health Risks for Young People
🧠 Brain Development and Mental Health
The teenage brain continues developing into the mid-20s. THC can interfere with this development and has been linked to:
Problems with memory and concentration
Reduced motivation
Increased anxiety and low mood
Higher risk of mental health difficulties, including paranoia and psychosis for some individuals
Regular use can make school, college and training more difficult.
🔁 Addiction and Dependence
While not everyone becomes addicted, young people are more vulnerable to cannabis dependence. This can involve:
Feeling unable to relax or sleep without it
Using more often than intended
Irritability and mood changes when not using
Losing interest in hobbies or activities
Dependence can develop gradually and often goes unnoticed at first.
❤️ Physical Health Risks
Smoking cannabis can also affect physical health, including:
Lung irritation and breathing problems
Increased heart rate and blood pressure
Poor sleep patterns
Reduced physical fitness
When mixed with tobacco, the risks increase further.
What Should Parents and Carers Look Out For?
Cannabis use is not always obvious, especially when vaping or edibles are involved.
Possible signs include:
Smell of cannabis or sweet, fruity scents
Bloodshot or tired-looking eyes
Changes in mood, motivation or behaviour
Declining school attendance or performance
Finding rolling papers, vapes, grinders, or small plastic bags
None of these signs alone confirm use, but patterns can be important.
Talking to Young People About Cannabis
If you are concerned:
Try to stay calm and open
Ask what they know about cannabis
Share accurate information rather than scare tactics
Let them know support is available if they want to cut down or stop
Many young people use cannabis to cope with stress, anxiety or difficult experiences, so understanding why is just as important as addressing the behaviour.
How Youth Unity Supports Young People
Youth Unity works with young people across London and surrounding areas through:
Mentoring
Wellbeing programmes
Outreach and detached youth work
Creative and sports-based interventions
We create safe spaces where young people can:
Talk honestly about substance use
Learn about risks and consequences
Access trusted adults
Be supported to make healthier choices
Where needed, we also help young people access specialist services.
Final Message
Cannabis is often seen as harmless, but for young people it can have real impacts on mental health, education, motivation and long-term wellbeing.
Early conversations, accurate information and supportive relationships are key to reducing harm and helping young people stay safe.
If you are worried about a young person, you do not have to manage it alone — support is available.
➡️ For advice or support, contact Youth Unity or speak to your school, GP or local youth service.
