How to talk to your family about your cannabis use?

Talking about cannabis remains a thorny issue in many contexts, especially in some homes. Contrary to what many might think, these conflicts don't stem from the plant itself, but from all the values that have been unfairly attributed to it: fear, prejudice, and ignorance. Talking to your family about cannabis

In many families, saying "I use cannabis" can sound as serious as "I have a problem." But that's not always the case. Sometimes it's quite the opposite: a form of self-care or stress management. So how do you approach this conversation without it ending in recriminations or awkward silences? There's no magic formula, but there are some keys that can help build an honest, calm, and, above all, humane dialogue based on understanding.

Infographic from the EVICT project on cannabis and tobacco use and possession among minors under 18 in Spain. Evict.com infographic, developed with the support of the Ministry of Health and the National Drug Plan.

First, you have to consider the context. Talking to your parents at 17 isn't the same as talking to them at 30. It's also not the same if there have been previous tensions about the topic, or if your family has never broached the subject or is firmly against it. Family context matters a lot. If you know there's resistance, prepare the ground. Don't just blurt it out in the middle of a meal or as a random fact. Find a quiet moment, without distractions. A sincere conversation requires time and space.

Secondly, keep in mind that the smartest thing to do when talking about consumption is to take responsibility. It's not a case of "I do what I want and that's it," but rather, "I know what I'm doing, and why I'm doing it. Besides, I know and understand what I'm consuming." Explain your decision without arrogance, but firmly.

Young man smoking. Image from Ivanesalud.com

Many parents grew up under the "war on drugs" narrative. For them, marijuana or any of its derivatives is synonymous with addiction, failure, and marginalization. If you confront them with facts, they may become more closed off. But if you share your everyday experience (if it helps you sleep, cope with anxiety, connect with yourself), they may listen more easily. Scientific evidence helps, of course, but personal experiences resonate more.

They might not agree. They might even get angry. And that's okay too. Sometimes the first step isn't convincing, but planting a seed of doubt or understanding. You must try to make them understand that talking about cannabis isn't talking about a substance, but about connections, trust, and identity. Sharing what you do without fear is also a way of saying, "I want you to know me as I am." And that, even if it hurts at first, is always a way of caring.

Image of a joint. Photo from Adinfa.es