What is it?
Cannabis is the most commonly used illegal drug in Australia. It is used in three main forms: marijuana, hashish and hash oil. Cannabis contains the active ingredient delta-9 TetraHydroCannabinol.
Cannabis can change your perception and mood. Using cannabis on the odd occasion is linked with little harm. Yet one in 10 people who use become dependent.
Cannabis can affect your mental health and is associated with depression, anxiety and psychosis. If you use cannabis, it’s important to reduce your usage and understand the risks. Your GP will talk to you about the health effects of cannabis and help you develop a plan to stop or cut back.
What will my GP do now?
Your GP may:
- Explain the risks of using cannabis
- Help you develop a plan to reduce your cannabis use
- Talk to you about risks, and give you strategies to reduce harm, if you continue to use
- Give you information about withdrawal symptoms
- Check your physical and mental health
- Talk to you about the risks of using other drugs, cigarettes, or alcohol
- Your GP may refer you to a drug and alcohol service. Through supportive counselling, information and appropriate planning, your GP can help you stop using cannabis.
What will my GP do in the future?
Your GP may see you in one month to check your health and make sure you are following your treatment plan. If you are struggling to stop using cannabis, you may need a referral to a drug and alcohol specialist.
What can I do?
Continue to see your GP regularly. Follow your treatment plan. Ask for a referral to a support service if you can’t stop using cannabis. It’s important to look after your health and wellbeing.
Regular exercise, sleep and a healthy diet will support your efforts to stop using cannabis. Alcohol, smoking and other drugs can make you feel worse, so try and cut back.
