Health Officials Encourage Early Cannabis Conversations Among Youth
In Minnesota, the ongoing conversation about cannabis use among youth is becoming increasingly vital, with recent data showing significant trends in student behavior. According to the 2025 Minnesota Student Survey, 96% of students reported not using cannabis in the past month, reflecting a steady decline in youth cannabis use since 2013.
This survey marks the first comprehensive look at youth cannabis use since the legalization of adult cannabis in Minnesota in 2023. Not only does it reveal healthier trends regarding student use, but it also indicates an improved perception of the potential harms associated with cannabis consumption. Overall, there has been a 57.7% decrease in self-reported cannabis use among eighth, ninth, and eleventh graders—from 14.9% in 2013 to just 6.3% in 2025.
Importance of Early Conversations
Despite these positive trends, Minnesota Commissioner of Health Dr. Brooke Cunningham emphasizes the importance of proactive communication. “The student survey indicates that some of our children are encountering cannabis at young ages,” she remarked. “We need to talk to our children about cannabis before they encounter it because we know the potential harms that early use can bring to their developing brains, mental health, and futures.”
Health officials recommend that parents and trusted adults find age-appropriate ways to engage children and teens in discussions about cannabis. Start with poison prevention by advising young children against consuming unknown gummies or candies, which may contain cannabis. The conversation can then evolve to focus on legality and brain health during adolescence.
Resources for Guidance
The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) has published a resource titled How to Talk with Youth About Cannabis, assisting adults in initiating these crucial discussions. Additionally, BeCannabisAware.org serves as an educational hub, featuring a “For Mentors” section that offers conversation tips for parents, educators, and community leaders.
From this survey, MDH researchers also compiled cannabis-related findings in the fact sheet Cannabis Use Among Youth in Minnesota, which aims to provide further insights into youth substance use trends.
This focus on education and proactive dialogue aims to create a healthier environment for Minnesota’s youth, as the cannabis industry continues to evolve and expand. By prioritizing communication, stakeholders can help ensure that young people are informed and equipped to make safe and responsible choices.