What is Cannabis?
Cannabis is a depressant drug that slows down the messages between the brain and body, though can have psychedelic and stimulant effects for some people too.
The dried buds or leaves of Cannabis is what is usually used, though it can sometimes come as hash (like a brown resin) and cannabis oil. Cannabis is commonly smoked in a bong or joint, or alternatively can be eaten in cookies or brownies, or cannabis oil used in a vaporiser too. Medical cannabis can now 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. These include location of use (context), gender, size, mood and if other drugs, alcohol or medication have been taken.
UNDERSTANDING:
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. Below 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
The Australian Drug Foundation and Harm Reduction Victoria also have a lot of useful information to help ADF in collaboration with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander service providers have also compiled resources about using Ganja which also comes from the Cannabis plant.
Experimenting with substances is a very normal part of adolescent development, though for many young people there is also a direct relationship between cannabis and mental health. For many Cannabis seems to ease their mental health concerns, though for others it can exacerbate them. YoDAA team is always happy to talk through what is occuring in your family and guide on what support could be best.
We know how stressful it can be for families, you can reach We know families have a lot of questions about substance use. Reach out to YoDAA help better understand and support your young person.
Get help now
YoDAA is a free and confidential online and phone service that offers supports to young people, families and professionals. You can contact 9am -5pm Monday to Friday.
