Health unit launches cannabis awareness campaign

The health unit has launched an education campaign focused on the potential risks of using cannabis, including the chance of developing “mental illness” and a caution for people under 25 to avoid using it.

“There remain a lot of questions and very few sources for accurate and credible information on the negative health effects and safer ways to consume this newly legal product,” said Melissa Valentik, a health promotion specialist with the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit.

The campaign — Cannabis: Your Questions, Answered — is aimed at students and young adults. Health officials are urging a “cautious approach to using cannabis in any form.”

“In particular, for those under the age of 25, those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, or those with a history of mental illness, cannabis should never be used.”

The campaign will include promotions in bus shelters, buses, movie theatres, on social media, and the University of Windsor and St. Clair College campuses.

“It’s important for young adults to know that starting cannabis use early and using heavily can lead to long-term or permanent damage to brain function, including memory, learning, and judgment as well as an increased risk for dependence or the development of mental illness,” said Valentik.

The health unit is urging young people to delay using cannabis until after the brain is fully developed at age 25. Officials are also encouraging people not to use it more than once a week, choose lower TCH products and avoid using it with alcohol or tobacco. Go to the health unit website for more information.