10 Things to Know About Cannabis Before Using It

10 Things to Know About Cannabis Before Using It

The more information you have the better you will be! At least that's what my dad use to say. 1. Delay use until after adolescence The earlier you start using cannabis, the higher the risk of serious health and learning problems, especially for youth. Regular use during adolescence can harm the developing brain and impact mental health, decision making, learning, and memory. It's best to wait until at least age 25 when the brain is fully developed. 2. Start low and go slow When using cannabis, start with a low dose and increase slowly. This is especially important for new users, as cannabis can affect people differently. Be cautious with high-THC products like concentrates, as they can increase the risk of over-intoxication. 3. Avoid smoking, consider alternatives Smoking cannabis directly affects the lungs and is the most harmful method of use. Alternatives like vaping or consuming edibles may be less harmful for the lungs, but can still cause other health issues. Be aware of the risks and effects of different consumption methods. 4. Don't use too often Regular or daily cannabis use increases the risk of dependence, mental health problems, and other long-term health effects. Try to limit your frequency of use to reduce these risks. 5. Avoid mixing with other substances Using cannabis with alcohol or other drugs can increase the risk of adverse effects and make it harder to predict how you'll be affected. It's safest to use cannabis on its own. 6. Be cautious with edibles Edibles can take 30 minutes to 2 hours to take effect, so it's easy to accidentally consume too much. Start with a small amount and wait before taking more. 7. Store cannabis safely Keep cannabis products properly labeled and stored in child-resistant containers, out of reach of children and pets. Invest in a lockbox if needed. 8. Use with trusted people It's best to use cannabis with people you know and trust, to avoid feeling pressured into using more than you're comfortable with. 9. Avoid sharing Don't share joints, bongs, pipes, or other personal items, as this can increase the risk of spreading illnesses. 10. Be aware of mental health risks Regular, high-THC cannabis use can increase the risk of developing mental health issues like anxiety, depression, and psychosis, especially if you have a family history. Choose lower-THC products and limit use to reduce these risks. In summary, the key is to start low, go slow, avoid high-risk behaviors, and be aware of the potential health impacts, especially for young people. Consult trusted sources and your healthcare provider for more information. More Sources:https://www.simcoemuskokahealth.org/topics/drugs/Cannabis/Top-10-Ways-to-Protect-Your-Healthhttps://www.colorado.edu/health/blog/cannabis