Youth Real Talk: How to Skip Weed Without Losing Your Friends

August 14, 2025

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Follow creators who hype health and hustle, not haze!

THUNDER BAY – LIVING – Ever since cannabis was legalized in Canada, it seems to have lowered the common sense barriers for many people, especially young people.

You’ll hear it a lot: “It’s just weed.” But your brain’s still wiring up through your mid-20s.

Cannabis can mess with memory, focus, motivation, and mood.

If you’re under 19 in Ontario, it’s also illegal to buy, have, or share.

You’ve got goals—sports, grades, work, your licence, your peace. Protect them.

That harmless looking joint can shift your patterns even before you have learned fully how to set and meet your life goals.

Have a Plan Before You’re Asked

Know your “why.” “I’m saving for a car,” “I need my lungs for hockey,” “I’m working early,” “I hate feeling fuzzy.”
Pick your crew & spot. Hang with people who don’t make you prove yourself. Meet where getting high isn’t the main event.
Carry a default. Hold a soda or water. People offer less when your hands are full.
Exit plan. Set a time to leave. Have your own ride, bus plan, or parent/older sibling on standby.

Easy Ways to Say “No” (That Actually Work)

“I’m good.”
“Got practice tomorrow.”
“I don’t smoke.”
“Trying to keep my head clear.”
“On meds—can’t mix.”
“Coach will smell it.”
“I’m driving.” / “My ride’s strict.”
If someone keeps pushing, that’s not your friend. Walk away. Your future > their mood.

Beat the Triggers (Without Lighting Up)

Stress: quick walk, cold water on face, 10 deep breaths, journal for 5.
Boredom: gym, basketball, gaming (set a timer), art, music, beadwork, fishing, volunteering.
Social pressure: show up late, leave early, stick with one ally who’s sober.
Online FOMO: mute group chats during party hours; follow creators who hype health and hustle, not haze.

Driving & Legal Reality (Ontario)

Under 19: no cannabis—period.
Impaired driving is criminal. Never ride with a high driver; call a parent, friend, or rideshare.
School teams, jobs, apprenticeships, and licences can all take a hit if you’re caught or show up impaired.

If You’ve Already Tried It

No drama—reset. Go 7 days clean. Track it on your phone.
Swap the habit: when you’d usually use, do 15 minutes of anything active.
Talk to someone you trust: parent, coach, Elder/Knowledge Keeper, teacher, counsellor, faith leader. Asking for help is grown-up behaviour.

Quick 7-Day Challenge

Day 1: Clean your space. Toss rolling papers/pipes.
Day 2: Move your body 30 minutes.
Day 3: Tell one safe person you’re staying sober.
Day 4: Try a hobby, or learn a skill on YouTube.
Day 5: Cook a solid meal, and hydrate.
Day 6: Help someone—chores, babysit, shovel, community clean-up.
Day 7: Count your wins. Plan the next week.

Keep Your Culture & Future First

Your identity, family, and community are bigger than a buzz.

If you’re Indigenous, lean on culture—smudge, drum, language, time on the land, circle—with people who lift you up.

Whatever your background, your goals are worth a clear mind.

Bottom line: You don’t need weed to belong, be funny, chill out, or create. Say no, level up, and keep building the life you actually want. If things feel heavy, reach out—Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868 or text CONNECT to 686868 (free, 24/7).