Consider the effects of cannabis use on mental health

EDMONTON - As 4/20 (April 20) approaches, Alberta Health Services is reminding Albertans to educate themselves about the effects of cannabis use on mental health.

All forms of cannabis cause short-term and long-term health effects and can harm your mental health by:

• worsening symptoms of bipolar disorder, depression, and anxiety;
• increasing your risk for mental disorders like schizophrenia, especially if you have a family history; and
• increasing your risk for thoughts of suicide and suicide attempts. The only way to completely avoid health risks related to cannabis is to not consume it.

If you are considering use of cannabis to manage stress, you can instead visit Help in Tough Times for resources and services such as Mental Wellness Moments, Text4Hope or AHS’ mental health online sessions.

If you are concerned about cannabis use in yourself or a loved one, and need support, help is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week via the Addiction Helpline, 1-866-332-2322; or by calling Health Link at 811. Mental health challenges or addiction can impact anyone and recovery is possible for anyone who is struggling.

If you do choose to use cannabis, find information on reducing your risk through Canada's Lower-risk Cannabis Use Guidelines, or visit ahs.ca/cannabis or DrugSafe.ca.

If you are concerned your child has been exposed to cannabis, do not induce vomiting  and call: Poison & Drug Information Service (PADIS) (toll-free 1-800-332-1414), or 911.

Alberta Health Services is the provincial health authority responsible for planning and delivering health supports and services for more than four million adults and children living in Alberta. Our mission is to provide a patient-focused, quality health system that is accessible and sustainable for all Albertans. Our current focus is on reducing emergency department wait-times, improving EMS response times, increasing access to surgeries, and improving patient flow.