"One of my friends gets high almost every day. I’ve tried to talk to him but he doesn’t listen. I think he’s on his way to addiction. What can I say that could make a difference? Do you have any medical information or statistics I can mention that might get him to think twice about what he's doing?"

This is a very difficult situation. There are many facts that you could share with him, most of which can be found on this Web site. Here are a few facts:

• Marijuana is a drug that you can get addicted to.
• More teens are in treatment with a primary diagnosis of marijuana dependence than for all other illicit drugs combined.
• Pot smoke contains some of the same cancer-causing substances as tobacco and is harmful to the lungs.
• Marijuana abuse affects your memory and school performance.

These facts may get him to think twice and are worth letting him know about. But even more important is that you tell him you’re concerned about him. Check out the Help section for some ideas and examples of what to say and how to try to reach your friend. Making a careful plan and even practicing what you might say is a good idea. Continue to let him know that you are worried about him, that you like him better when he’s not stoned, and that you’d like to be his friend, but not when he’s using. Even offer to help him quit. Most importantly, don’t give up on him, but also don’t support his use. Be clear that you’d like to be friends with him, but that he needs to quit for you to spend time with him. Last, try to remember that there is only so much you can do. Be proud that you are trying to help, but don’t take responsibility for changing him.