Have conversations early that reflect your own values toward the use of drugs and other substances such as alcohol and cigarettes.
It’s important to talk about the risks that come with using cannabis before 25. Until then, the brain isn’t fully developed and cannabis use can lead to problems that impact memory, learning, attention, judgment and decision making.
A good approach is to understand the facts. Taking anything that changes the way you think, act and feel could have consequences on major life areas. This could include poor performance in school and dropping out of things you enjoy.
If you know someone who is under 18, and they’re using or considering using cannabis, encourage them to think about where they do it, who they are with, why they are using, and what they are doing while using.
Remember this. Whether or not they express it, youth and teens care about your opinion. It matters and can help with decision making.
Consider how to keep children safe in relation to cannabis:
If a child is exposed to cannabis and shows signs of distress, contact Poison & Drug Information Service (PADIS) (tollfree 1-800-332-1414) or Health Link (call 811 or 1-866-408-5465 for internet phone users).
For more parenting resources, please visit Healthy Parents, Healthy Children.
Cannabis became legal across Canada on October 17, 2018. Find out what it means for Albertans by visiting www.alberta.ca/cannabis.
Consuming too much cannabis can cause toxic effects. If cannabis is combined with other drugs, the risk can increase as well. Some signs of cannabis poisoning or excessive consumption may include:
If you are concerned that you or someone you’re with is showing signs of cannabis poisoning or excessive consumption, call the Poison & Drug Information Service (PADIS) (tollfree 1-800-332-1414), Health Link (call 811 or 1-866-408-5465 for internet phone users), or 911.
There are health risks to children when they are exposed to second-hand cannabis smoke. In addition, if a child accidentally eats or drinks cannabis and shows signs of distress, visit Poison & Drug Information Service (PADIS) (tollfree 1-800-332-1414), Health Link (call 811 or 1-866-408-5465 for internet phone users), or 911.
Alberta Health Services is working with school health partners to provide key cannabis resources for teachers, school administrators, and other educators.
Drugsafe.ca cannabis information is primarily dedicated to non-medical cannabis, but here are some links related to medical cannabis:
For more information visit:
If you are concerned about your own or someone else’s use of cannabis, alcohol, or another drug, please contact Health Link at 811 or Addiction Helpline at 1-866-332-2322.
If you need help or are concerned with someone else’s substance use, call:
Health Link at 811 or
1-866-332-2322 the Addiction Helpline
(available 24 hours a day, seven days a week)