Table 2 Service providers’ perceptions related to youth cannabis use from survey data

Legalization of cannabis

60% agree

20% neither agree nor disagree

20% disagree

“I will support the legalization, when there is proper education in place.”

“Since legalization, the rates in youth seem to be increasing, and since the pandemic the mental health of youth has really declined. Legalization appears to be associated with safe and harm free. We need to pull back on the promotion of cannabis.”

“I agree with decriminalization but strongly disagree with the way this was legalized. It was for financial reasons and did not have a clear public health plan to prevent harms to children and youth. They did the same thing with vaping. It took years to reduce cigarette smoking rates, and it is irresponsible of our government and public health units.”

Understanding of cannabis used for medical purposes versus recreational use

49% moderate level of understanding

26% high level of understanding

25% low level of understanding

“Cannabis is not medical, and the government and pharmaceutical companies have convinced us that it is a form of medical treatment.”

“Cannabis is widely considered normal and a rite of passage for youth. It is also legal (for adults) and even considered a medical treatment, natural, ‘good for you’ by many people in Canada. As such, youth tend to think it’s not a big deal to use it often and/or to self-medicate.”

Risks and adverse effects of cannabis use on youth

65% believe cannabis is harmful

84% believe there are risks to physical & mental health

“I have observations about how it affects [youth]. But I would like more scientific evidence. Many clients claim it treats their mental health issues, I feel it exacerbates mental health issues in the long term and makes it challenging to do therapeutic work if they are actively using.”

“A more theoretical understanding of the risks of cannabis use by youth and young adults. Education and treatment regarding Cannabis Use Disorder and other mental health issues associated with cannabis. The majority of my young male clients have significant cognitive and social issues associated with their habitual and excessive cannabis use.”

“I think the service providers, youth, parents, and the public do not have enough information on the risks associated with cannabis use. When I try to educate my patients, I am going against a narrative that is very strong about cannabis being beneficial/medical/natural.”

Importance of family support & involvement in treatment

89% agree about the importance of family support

76% believe families should be involved

“Substance use can be a symptom of a broader issue, and family is a key source of belonging and support. Especially if the youth/young adult is living with family, they need to be on the same page with the youth/young adult in their process so they can know how to be that source of support.”

“Our addiction and mental health services do not support families and physicians cannot provide treatment for the whole family.”

Stigma of cannabis use

46% perceive cannabis use as stigmatizing

38% perceive there is no stigma

11% were unsure

5% did not respond

“A lot of people look down upon cannabis use still and there are a lot of stereotypes associated with cannabis users.”

“The labelling by family that they are “lazy”, “irresponsible” which affects self worth and feeling hopeless.”

“I think there is less of a stigma since legalization.”

“No stigma because cannabis use is normalized. You are considered odd if you consider cannabis to be problematic.”

“The stigma of cannabis left years ago. Doctors, social workers, other professionals are using and encouraging others to use, which confuses the situation further.”