Responsible Cannabis Use

 Responsible Cannabis Use

Using Cannabis Responsibly | Cannabis and Addiction | Storing Cannabis Safely

Using Cannabis Responsibly

If you choose to use cannabis, reduce your risks.

How Much and How Often?

  • Start Low, Go Slow: Start with 1–2 puffs if smoking or 2.5 grams of THC if using edibles. Wait to feel the effects before using more. image-20260421131813-1
  • Use Less: It is best to not use more than once per week and to avoid products high in THC. image-20260421131824-2 

Making Better Choices

  • Wait until 25: It is best to wait until you are 25 years old to use cannabis, since it changes how your brain grows and works. It is illegal to use cannabis products under the age of 19. image-20260421131837-3
  • Stay Away from Fake Cannabis: Spice, K2, or other synthetic cannabis have dangerous chemicals and can cause serious health problems, even death. image-20260421131846-4
  • Don’t mix cannabis with alcohol, other drugs, or prescription medications: The effects can be unpredictable and increase the risk of health harms. image-20260421131854-5

Taking Care of Yourself and Others

  • It is best to avoid smoking or vaping to protect your lungs. image-20260421131913-6
  • Mental Health: It is best to avoid cannabis use if you or your family have a history of mental illness or substance use problems. image-20260421131921-7
  • If You Are Pregnant or Breastfeeding: The safest choice is not to use cannabis since it can harm your baby’s health.image-20260421131932-8
  • Don’t Drive: Do not drive any vehicle after using cannabis. This includes cars, trucks, ATVs, boats, and snowmobiles. image-20260421131941-9

The best way to prevent the risks is to avoid cannabis use.

For more information, click on the links below.

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Cannabis and Addiction

It is possible to develop cannabis dependence. This is called problematic cannabis use or cannabis use disorder.

This can happen when using cannabis with high levels of THC daily, or nearly every day.

Some signs are:

  • Using more cannabis, more often.
  • Not being able to control how much you use.
  • Needing more cannabis to feel the same effects.
  • Not being able to focus on school, work or home duties.
  • Giving up other activities so you can use cannabis.

If you or someone you know needs help with their cannabis use, there are options. Free, confidential mental health support is available at every health centre.

You can call the Nunavut Quitline at 1-866-368-7848 or message a Quit Coach on the Live Chat for support on quitting or reducing cannabis.

Storing Cannabis Safely

It is very important to store cannabis products safely, especially if there are children or pets in your home.

How to Store Cannabis

  • Keep all cannabis products out of sight and reach. Store it in a locked drawer or cabinet where children and pets can't see or reach it.
  • Store cannabis in its original package to avoid confusion with other items.
  • Label your cannabis products clearly so everyone knows what they are.
  • Make sure cannabis edibles are stored separately from regular food to prevent accidental ingestion.

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Accidental Poisoning Risks (Children)

Accidental poisonings in children from edible cannabis are a serious risk. If you think a child in your care is acting unusual, or looks ill, act immediately.

Check if the child may have eaten anything that contains cannabis. Look for these symptoms:

  • Vomiting
  • Confusion
  • Unresponsiveness (not reacting)
  • Slurred speech (unclear speech)
  • Difficulty walking
  • Sleepiness
  • Slowed breathing
  • Seizures (in rare cases)

If your child loses consciousness or has difficulty breathing, call your community’s emergency number or go directly to your Health Centre. Explain that you suspect the symptoms are or may be from cannabis consumption. A quicker diagnosis can prevent serious harm.