Levels of use 
According to the 2004 NHS:
- 25.5% of 14-19 year olds reported that they had tried cannabis.
- 17.9% of 14-19 year olds reported use of cannabis in the twelve months prior.
- Cannabis is the most commonly used illicit substance in Australia.
Pharmacology
- Cannabis mainly acts as a depressant drug. However, it can also act as a hallucinogen, especially with high doses.
Forms of cannabis
- Marijuana - The leaves and flowers of the marijuana plant
- Hashish (oil and resin) - These forms of cannabis are made from the resin of the flowering heads of the plant
- Tablets containing THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol, the active ingredient in cannabis)
Effects
Small quantities:
- Increased feelings of well-being
- Relaxation
- Loss of inhibitions
- Loss of concentration
- Increased pulse and heart rate
- Red eyes
- Increased appetite
Large quantities:
- Feelings of panic
- Hallucinations
- Restlessness
- Paranoia
- Confusion
Longer term effects:
Regular use over a long time increases the chance of bronchitis, lung cancer and respiratory problems. Also, it can cause loss of energy and interest in other activities. Decreased concentration, memory and ability to learn can continue for several months after use has stopped, but tend to improve with time.
Special considerations
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Mental health concerns - intensive use has been associated in some young people with serious mental health conditions in which the person experiences psychosis (where individuals lose sense of reality and may have hallucinations). The severity of the symptoms usually decreases after the person stops use of cannabis, but some develop chronic conditions or, more likely have an underlying mental disorder exacerbated (eg schizophrenia).
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Pregnancy - the mother using cannabis during pregnancy increases the chance of low birth weight and slower development of the foetus.
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Using with other substances - the effects of using cannabis can be increased when used with other substances due to unexpected interaction effects.
Withdrawal
Withdrawal is often quite mild. Some experience moderate levels of irritability and anxiety.contents list / about the package / quick feedback / previous page / next page
Working with Young People with Alcohol or Other Drug Issues: A self-paced learning package Published: 2006 Funded by NSW Drug & Alcohol Workforce Development Council. Written & compiled by Kristy Delaney, YAPA, and Matt Stubbs & John Howard, Ted Noffs Institute. Additional material by Nick Manning, YAPA, & by Shopfront Youth Legal Centre. Opinions are the author's.
Be careful! YAPA and the authors took reasonable care to ensure that this information was correct at the time of publishing. However health information, and government regulations, laws and standards are complex and changing. The authors may not have health, safety, or legal qualifications, and information provided is general - it is not specific health, legal or professional advice. Do not rely on it - check with other publications and authorities and if necessary get qualified, medical, legal or professional advice for your situation.
