Conversations matter: cannabis

What is cannabis?

Cannabis is a plant that has psychoactive effects. Psychoactive means that it can change the way a person thinks, acts or feels. Cannabis comes in many forms, including:

• dried flowers or leaves
• hash
• oils
• capsules or pills
• edibles (e.g., baked goods, butter and candy).

Each of these forms can affect a person differently.

Risks of cannabis for youth

Young people under 16 who use cannabis regularly can develop health and social problems that may be long-lasting. They include:

• harm to brain development, causing problems with memory, concentration and decision making
• increased risk of mental health problems such as depression, anxiety or psychosis
• difficulties with friends or family
• breathing problems
• physical dependence

Delaying cannabis use until after adolescence will reduce the risks. The brain is not fully developed until the age of 25.