| Essential information for an informed debate about cannabis policy. |
A cannabis information card available at Dutch "Coffee Shops":
Adapted from a cannabis information card available at Dutch Coffee Shops. [above]
• Cannabis is made from a plant called Hemp.
• It makes you feel cheerful and relaxed.
• The effects of Cannabis last between 2 and 4 hours.
Just like other stimulants, Cannabis can be abused which is why the following tips are important.
1. There are big differences between various types of Cannabis: some are stronger than others. Experienced smokers feel when they've had enough and are able to stop at that moment. When you smoke for the first time you don't yet know your limits.
2. If you have little experience with Cannabis, it is not advisable to drink alcohol at the same time.
3. When Cannabis is burnt, substances are released which are harmful to your health (tar & carbon monoxide), therefore when you smoke Cannabis mixed with tobacco you also run the risks associated with smoking tobacco.
4. Cannabis influences your power of concentration. Don't use it at school, at work or before driving.
5. If you take medication make sure you ask your Doctor if it is also OK to smoke Cannabis. Don't use Cannabis when you are pregnant.
6. If you eat food products made with Cannabis (cookies, brownies), keep in mind that it takes about 45 - 90 minutes before it takes effect. Be patient and don't take another piece because by the time you've realized that you've had too much -- its too late!
7. Sometimes the effect of Cannabis isn't so pleasant. It can make you feel sick or frightened and want to withdraw to a quiet place.
8. Don't use Cannabis to avoid problems. If you smoke everyday, try to go a few days per week without.
9. Don't take any Cannabis with you when you travel to another country.
Final Remark: You can smoke Cannabis on and off just for fun. You may even smoke every day or decide not to smoke at all. In the end its up to you weather you deal with Cannabis in a sensible way or not.
Be nice to your lungs. Don't delay your exhale.
There's no added benefit to holding your smoke in longer than a second or two.
Advice For Teenagers About Cannabis
It's best to avoid using cannabis until you've completed high school. Your brain is still developing during this time and you've got the whole rest of your life to smoke cannabis if that's what you choose to do. To distract yourself from this important time of learning could have implications on your future prospects. Getting arrested for a cannabis related offense will certainly limit your choices of employment and can restrict international travel.
If you do use cannabis, self-moderation is important. If your frequency of use is having negative impacts on important areas of your life try taking longer breaks between uses.
Now is the time to prepare for your future. Cannabis will still be there when you're older.
