Cannabis, is a drug that slows down the brain and body, yet many people continue to use it despite its long-lasting harmful effects. It makes decision-making harder, slows reaction times, and affects coordination and senses. Most people are familiar with cannabis in its herbal form, but it can also appear as resin, oil, or stronger products such as dab or shatter.
Another way people use cannabis is through edibles, which are food products infused with THC. THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is the main chemical in cannabis that creates the “high.” Edibles often come as sweets, gummies, lollipops, cookies, chocolate, or even crisps. Unlike smoking, the effects of edibles take longer to appear, but they can also be stronger and last longer, which increases the risk of consuming too much.
Cannabis is a hallucinogenic drug which means it changes the way you experience things- it distorts what you might hear, see, feel and think.
The Risks of Cannabis Edibles
Cannabis edibles are often made to look like sweets you already know, like Haribo, Smarties, Nerds, or chocolate bars. This can be tempting enough to make you, and your friends think they’re safe, but the effects can be unpredictable.
How They Affect You
Cannabis triggers chemicals in the brain that can make someone feel giggly, chatty, or relaxed. Some people might also see or hear things that aren’t there, or feel paranoid and anxious.
When to Get Help
Seek medical attention if you or a friend experience:
- Fast heart rate or high blood pressure
- Confusion or poor coordination
- Paranoia
- Hallucinations
- Panic attacks
- Vomiting
- Dry mouth
- Bloodshot eyes
- Psychosis
Why Edibles Are Risky
Edibles take longer to work than smoking cannabis. This delay means people might take too much, leading to overdose. The strength of THC also varies between products, so the effects are hard to predict. Even if someone already smokes cannabis, they may react very differently to edibles, especially if it’s their first time.
Seeking help
If you’re worried about how alcohol is affecting your mental health, please visit the Aquarius services page for advice and support.
In all its forms, cannabis has a direct impact on how the brain and body function. Knowing the effects helps in making safer and more informed choices.