Cannabis

What is Cannabis?

Cannabis is a depressant drug that slows down the messages between the brain and body. Smoked in high quantities it can have psychedelic effects for some people. Cannabis has been used spiritually and culturally for many years. Medical cannabis can be prescribed by a doctor or nurse practitioner for any condition that they think it is appropriate.
There are a number of factors that impact how a young person might experience a drug. Such as their location, gender, size, mood and if other drugs, alcohol or medication has been taken.

UNDERSTADNING:

Understanding more about why a young person might use cannabis can help guide future conversations with them. Some young people might use cannabis because they want to have fun with their peers, it slows down their thoughts, it increases relaxation and reduces stress.
While a young person may use for many reasons, sometimes drugs can have unintended side effects.

Here are some ways to support a young person who might have had too much Cannabis.

• Stay calm and approach the young person quietly
• Support them to move to a safe place where they are comfortable
• If they are feeling paranoid reassure them you are there to support them
• Remind them that the effects will wear off
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• Check out these articles to understand how to best support your young person:
• Understanding adolescent development in relation to drug use ADF
• Risk taking behaviours and adolescents Headspace
• Importance of peer relationship headspace
• How to start a conversation about drug use with someone you are concerned about YoDAA video

This is only a little bit of information this Harm Reduction Victoria fact sheet has heaps more. Please see link below for printable version.

• he relationship between cannabis and mental health is explained in this video on the effects of marijuana on the brain from Cannabis information & Support website.
• Or there’s this article from ADF in collaboration with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander service providers that has some information about what happens to the body and brain on Ganja.