Webinar Recap: Talking With Teens About Vaping & Cannabis Use
Da Vinci Schools recently hosted a powerful parent/caregiver webinar on teen vaping and cannabis use, featuring expert clinicians from Clear Behavioral Health. The conversation delivered critical, timely information for families—highlighting warning signs to watch for, addressing common misconceptions, and offering practical, compassionate strategies to help parents support their teens with confidence and care.
The webinar was hosted by Erin Whalen, Da Vinci’s Assistant Superintendent of Student Services, with clinicians Karissa Provost, Aaron Mostin, and Pamela Corey from Clear Behavioral Health.
What we learned:
Vaping and cannabis use among teens is on the rise, and today’s products are far more potent than in the past. Nicotine vapes can contain the equivalent of a pack of cigarettes, and high-concentration cannabis has been linked to increased risks for anxiety, depression, and psychosis—especially for adolescents with underlying vulnerabilities
Warning signs to watch for:
Panelists shared common indicators of substance use, including sudden changes in mood or behavior, declining grades, secrecy, irritability, and withdrawal from family or friends. Drastic personality shifts or signs of paranoia or hallucinations may signal a need for immediate support
How to talk with your teen:
Experts emphasized offering curiosity over judgment. Start conversations early, stay calm, ask open-ended questions, and focus on health and safety rather than punishment. Teens are already exposed to substance-related messaging, so proactive, honest conversations matter
When to seek help:
Parents were encouraged to reach out to school counselors, pediatricians, or mental health professionals if concerns arise. Early intervention can make a meaningful difference, and multiple levels of care—from therapy to intensive outpatient programs—are available for teens who need additional support
The webinar concluded with reassurance: families are not alone, and rebuilding trust after discovering substance use is possible with openness, support, and professional guidance.
We are deeply grateful to our partners at Clear Behavioral Health for sharing their expertise, compassion, and commitment to supporting the well-being of our students and families.
