Speaking of Cannabis: Tools for trusted adults
Launched by 11 counties, the Speaking of Cannabis campaign seeks to empower trusted adults in Southeast Minnesota to share information with the youth in their lives about the risks of cannabis use.
Using cannabis during a time when the brain is actively developing can have harmful and long-term effects on the brain. Products can have, on average, more than three times the potency of THC than products did 30 years ago. This can increase risk, especially when used before the brain is fully developed.
“It’s not the same potency as the marijuana they were familiar with when they were their kids’ age. We’re hoping that this campaign can provide the facts and some tips for how to talk to kids in your life about cannabis,” said Abby Tricker, Community Health Specialist, Olmsted County Public Health Services.
The campaign focuses on three actions:
- Understand how cannabis can affect the developing brain.
- Talk with teens in your life about not using cannabis.
- Store cannabis products safely locked up and out of reach of children.
Participating counties include Dodge, Fillmore, Freeborn, Goodhue, Houston, Mower, Olmsted, Rice, Steele, Wabasha and Winona.
Speaking of Cannabis was first launched in summer 2025 by another group of local public health agencies.
“This was a group effort by public health staff who live and work across Northeast Minnesota, which helped us understand local needs and complement the great work already happening in places like schools, coalitions and peer education programs,” said Jenna Olson, Public Health Communications Coordinator with Carlton-Cook-Lake-St. Louis Community Health Board.
Speaking of Cannabis is launching in Southeast Minnesota with online ads and displays in community locations, with more to come. This activity is made possible by a grant from the Cannabis & Substance Use Prevention program of the Minnesota Department of Health’s Health Improvement Bureau.
For more information, visit speakingofcannabis.org.
