Cannabis is a drug that is derived from the cannabis plant that contains a range of chemicals, including THC and CBD. THC (delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol) is the main psychoactive agent which causes the ‘high’ of the drug, while CBD (cannabidiol) has a moderating effect.
Cannabis is the most used illegal drug in Australia and is the primary drug of concern for young people accessing treatment for alcohol or other drugs.
Cannabis effects the cannabinoid receptors of the body and brain, which are responsible for mood, sleep and hunger regulation. Cannabis is primarily regarded as a depressant, meaning it slows down the messaging between the brain and the body. It can also have hallucinogenic effects and mild stimulant effects.
Synthetic cannabinoids are substances made to mimic or produce similar effects to cannabis. They are dried plant material sprayed with chemicals. There is no safe consumption of synthetic cannabinoids, and these drugs may have much more potent and unpleasant effects.
Other nicknames for cannabis include: pot, cones, joint, bong, grass, weed, yarndi, and ganja.
Cannabis affects every individual differently and experiences can even differ for an individual on separate occasions or over their lifetime. The effects of cannabis can be influenced by the height, weight and health of a person, the amount taken, how it is taken and the environment. Effects can be felt within a few minutes and last a few hours if smoked, while effect can take an hour to peak and last 6-8 hours if consumed orally.
Cannabis can make current mental health conditions worse and may increase the risk of developing mental illnesses, especially for individuals with a personal or family history of mental health issues.
The short term/immediate effects of cannabis can include:
The long term effects of cannabis can include:
Cannabis use can lead to reduced motivation, which can have a range of social consequences and impact an individuals schooling/work, relationships and behaviour. Cannabis use can cause financial issues, family problems and can also have legal consequences.
Anyone can develop a tolerance to cannabis, meaning more of the drug is required to experience the same effects. Dependence on cannabis means that it takes up a lot of an individual’s thoughts, emotions and activities. Signs to identify someone may have a dependence on cannabis are:
taking cannabis in large amounts over a longer period of time than was initially planned
cancelling important social and work activities to use cannabis
spending a lot of time using or recovering from use
continuing to use despite experiencing negative effects
In New South Wales, possessing, using or selling cannabis remains illegal. First offenders found with a small amount can be cautioned. Any more subsequent or serious offences can lead to charges or imprisonment. Some laws allow access to medicinal cannabis for specific conditions. It is important to note medicinal cannabis is not the same as recreational cannabis. and advice should be sought from a medical professional.
There are always risks associated with using cannabis. No use at all is the safest option. There are a number of ways to reduce some of the harms it can cause, including:
Withdrawal refers to symptoms experienced while giving up cannabis after regular use is challenging as the body has to get used to functioning without it. Withdrawal symptoms can include:
Withdrawal symptoms can be managed with advice from a health professional.
Common symptoms of an overdose from cannabis include vomiting, racing heart, chest pain, hallucinations difficulties breathing, panic attacks and unconsciousness.
If someone is physically sick from consuming cannabis, never leave them on their own as they could suffocate on their vomit.
If someone is experiencing panic attacks or paranoia, take them to a safe, quiet place and stay with them and reassure them.
If someone continues to feel bad, or becomes unconscious or unresponsive It is important to seek urgent medical help by calling an ambulance on triple zero (000) and follow advice. If the person has been mixing cannabis with other drugs, tell the NSW Ambulance paramedic exactly what they have taken. Paramedics are there to help.
In an emergency or crisis situation always call triple zero (000) for ambulance and follow instructions.
For free and confidential advice about alcohol and other drugs 24 hours, 7 days a week, call the National Alcohol and Other Drugs Hotline 1800 250 015.
Poisons Information Centre is a 24/7 call centre service available across Australia. Call 13 11 26
Key References and Resources
NSW Health, Cannabis, accessed on 10/03/2025 via https://yourroom.health.nsw.gov.au/a-z-of-drugs/Pages/cannabis.aspx
Alcohol and Drug Foundation 2025, Cannabis, accessed on 10/03/2025 via https://adf.org.au/drug-facts/cannabis/
