Cannabis consumption can have a wide range of effects on physical and mental health. While further research is required to fully understand how cannabis affects the body and brain, the resources on this page will help you interpret what the clinical evidence to date says about the relationship between cannabis consumption and mental health, the developing brain, and pregnancy and breastfeeding, as well as how cannabis may be used for medical purposes.
If you or someone you know may be experiencing cannabis use disorder, you’ll find information here on the risks of frequent cannabis, use as well as resources to seek help.
Video: How Does Cannabis Work in My Body?
While researchers are quite certain about how THC works, there’s still a lot to understand about how cannabis interacts with our bodies. Dr. Ruth A. Ross, PhD, lays out the basics.
Cannabis Consumption and Cannabis Use Disorder
Cannabis use exists on a spectrum, ranging from abstinence to cannabis use disorder (or addiction). If you choose to consume cannabis, it’s important to understand the spectrum and the risks at each point.
Cannabis and the Brain
While many people can use cannabis in a low-risk way, it’s essential to be aware of the short- and long-term effects that regular and/or frequent cannabis consumption can have on the brain.
Cannabis Use and Mental Health
Clinical research has established a complex connection between regular cannabis use and mental health outcomes. Here’s what researchers know so far.
Video: Does Consuming Cannabis Regularly Relate to Developing Depression or Mood Disorders?
There’s still a lot to uncover when it comes to the link between cannabis consumption and anxiety and depression, but Kira London-Nadeau, PhD candidate, is certain about one thing: It can be helpful to take notice of your mental state and how cannabis affects it.
How Cannabis Affects the Developing Brain
Regular cannabis use during adolescence may negatively impact brain development. Learn how THC may affect the developing brain and the risks to adolescents.
Cannabis, Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
While the effects of cannabis use during pregnancy and breastfeeding are not yet completely understood, no amount of cannabis has been proven safe. Here’s what the current clinical evidence says about the risks.
Cannabis for Medical Use
Access to cannabis for medical purposes has been legal in Canada since 2001. Learn about the laws governing medical use of cannabis and what research says about its effectiveness as a treatment for certain health conditions.
Video: Should I Talk to My Doctor Before Using Cannabis for Medical Reasons?
Medical cannabis may not be right for everyone. Lindsay Lo, MPH, MSc, explains why it’s important to talk to your doctor about consuming it safely and effectively.
Short- and Long-Term Health Effects of Cannabis Use
Cannabis education can be key to reducing the possible long- and short-term effects of cannabis consumption.
Video: What Are the Risks of Frequent Cannabis Use?
While it’s true that consuming cannabis has been associated with some benefits, there are also potential risks. Dr. Jibran Khokhar, PhD, breaks it all down.
Understanding Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome
Understand the symptoms of cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) and learn how you can help treat them.
Cannabis and Heart Health
Time for a pulse check: Examine the latest research into how consuming cannabis, and particularly smoking it, may impact your heart and cardiac health.
The Effects of Cannabis on the Lungs
Is smoking cannabis better for you than smoking tobacco? How does smoking cannabis affect your lungs in comparison to vaping cannabis? Learn more about the effect of cannabis on the lungs.
