If you are concerned about your own or someone else’s use of cannabis, alcohol, or another drug, please contact Health Link at 811 (1-866-408-5465 for internet phone users) or the Addiction Helpline at 1-866-332-2322.

Cannabis Under 25

DrugSafe

Cannabis Under 25

I'm Under 25. How Does Cannabis Affect Me?

Research has shown that your brain is still developing until about the age of 25. That means that using cannabis before the age of 25 can change the way your brain develops.

Did You Know?

  • The younger you are when you start using cannabis and the more often you use, the higher your risk of addiction and other serious health problems.
  • Cannabis can affect your attention, judgment, decision-making, and how well you learn.
  • Cannabis could get in the way of your future goals. Young people who use cannabis often are less likely to finish high school or get a college degree.
  • Regularly using cannabis with high levels of THC (more than 100 mg/g or 10%) can increase your risk for mental health problems like suicidal thoughts and psychosis (seeing, hearing, and believing things that aren't real).
  • The long-term effects of vaping cannabis are still unknown. While it may be less harmful than smoking, vaping comes with its own risks, including harmful ingredients, device explosions, and damage to your lungs.
  • Inhaling cannabis concentrates at high temperatures (called 'dabbing') can be dangerous and can increase your risk of injury and harmful side effects, such as fast heartbeat, blackouts and loss of consciousness. If you choose to use cannabis, avoid dabbing.
  • Delaying cannabis use until you're over the age of 25 can lower your risk of harmful health effects.

Youth-Specific Effects of Cannabis Use

Here are 5 reasons young people should try to delay cannabis use for as long as possible.

More Information