Cannabis: Harm Minimisation Strategies

General Safety Tips for Cannabis Use

1. Understand Your Substance

Know your strain: different strains of cannabis can have significantly different effects. Indica strains tend to be more relaxing, while sativa strains are often more energizing. Be aware of the THC and CBD content — higher THC levels might mean stronger psychoactive effects.

Test new batches: if possible, especially with new suppliers, start with a small amount to understand its strength. Cannabis can vary widely in potency.

2. Set and Setting:

Know your body & mind (set): be aware of how you’re feeling before using cannabis. If you’re anxious, stressed, or in a negative mood, cannabis could potentially amplify those feelings.

Know your environment (setting): use in a familiar, safe environment and ideally with friends you trust. This can make your experience more enjoyable and safer.

3. Mixing and Masking Effects:

Avoid mixing with other drugs: using cannabis with other substances, like alcohol or prescription drugs, can unpredictably enhance their effects, increasing the risk of negative reactions.

Caffeine and cannabis: be cautious when mixing cannabis with caffeine; it can mask the sedative effects of cannabis, leading to overconsumption.

4. Measure Your Doses Accurately:

Edibles: Start with a low dose (around 2.5-5 mg of THC) and wait at least two hours to feel the full effects before considering more. Edibles take longer to kick in and can result in a much stronger and longer-lasting high than expected.

Smoking/Vaping: Take a puff or two and wait to gauge the effects, especially if you're using a new strain or are an infrequent user.

5. Hydrate and Nourish:

Stay hydrated: cannabis can cause dry mouth, often referred to as "cottonmouth." Drink plenty of water before, during, and after use.

Healthy munchies: have healthy snacks ready if you experience increased appetite — this can help avoid overindulging in less healthy options.

6. Carry Information on Your Substance:

Keep details about the strain and potency of your cannabis, especially if you need to discuss your consumption with a healthcare provider.

7. Avoid Using Synthetic Cannabis:

Products like Spice or K2, which are synthetic cannabinoids, can have unpredictable and severe side effects. Stick to natural cannabis products to avoid these risks.

Routes of Administration: From Safer to Riskier

1. Oral Ingestion (Edibles, Tinctures)
Why Safer: Avoids inhalation risks; offers a longer, more controlled high.
Tip: Start with a low dose and be patient. Edibles can take 30 minutes to 2 hours to take effect.

2. Inhalation (Vaping)
Safer Than Smoking: Vaping can reduce the intake of tar and carcinogens.
Tip: Use a dry herb vaporizer to avoid the potential risks associated with vape liquids.

3. Smoking (Joints, Pipes, Bongs)
Common but Riskier: Smoking is harsher on the lungs and can introduce toxins.
Tip: Use unbleached rolling papers and avoid inhaling deeply or holding your breath to minimize tar exposure.

4. Topicals (Creams and Balms)
Low risk: primarily affects the local area of application; no psychoactive effects.
Tip: great for localised pain without the high.

Recognising and Responding to Overuse

Recognising Overuse

• Anxiety or paranoia
• Dizziness or nausea
• Excessive sedation or sleepiness
• Impaired motor skills
• Dry mouth and eyes.

Responding to Overuse

1. 1. Stay calm and comfortable: move to a quiet area and use calm, reassuring words.
2. 2. Hydration: sip water or a hydrating electrolyte beverage.
3. 3. Distraction: listen to soothing music or engage in a relaxing activity.
4. 4. Seek medical help if needed: if symptoms are severe or don't improve, call emergency services or seek medical assistance.

Safe Management of Withdrawal

For those who use cannabis frequently and heavily, there can be withdrawal symptoms when they stop. These might include:

• Physical symptoms: sweating, chills, headaches, and stomach problems.
• Emotional symptoms: irritability, mood swings, restlessness, and cravings.

Managing Withdrawal Safely

1. 1. Medical supervision: consult a healthcare provider if withdrawal symptoms are severe.
2. 2. Gradual reduction: slowly reducing cannabis use can help minimize withdrawal symptoms.
3. 3. Supportive care: stay connected with friends and family and consider joining a support group if needed.

Explore some of the other ConnectWell modules to access other relaxation exercises if you prefer to have someone walk you through with a recording.