Cannabis: what it does, how it can affect you and getting support 

If you’ve used cannabis or are thinking about it, understanding how it can affect you and where to get support can help you make more informed choices. 

Quick answers about cannabis 

• Cannabis can affect your mood, memory and concentration 
• It can make some people feel relaxed, but others feel anxious or paranoid 
• It can affect mental health, especially with regular use 
• Not everyone reacts to cannabis in the same way 
• Support is available if you’re worried about your use 

What is cannabis? 

Cannabis is a drug that comes from the cannabis plant. It is most commonly: 

• Smoked (in joints or with tobacco) 
• Used in vapes 
• Eaten in food (sometimes called edibles) 

There are different types and strengths of cannabis, and it’s not always clear how strong it is. 

The main chemical in cannabis (THC) is what affects how you feel and think. 

Is cannabis safe? 

Some people think cannabis is low risk, but it can affect people differently depending on: 

• The strength 
• How often it’s used 
• Your age and mental health 

For young people, cannabis can: 

• Affect brain development 
• Impact memory and focus 
• Increase the risk of anxiety or low mood 

Because everyone reacts differently, it’s hard to predict how it will affect you. 

How can cannabis affect you? 

Cannabis can have both short‑term and longer‑term effects. 

Some people may feel: 

• Relaxed or calm 
• More sociable 
• Giggly or light‑hearted 

But it can also cause: 

• Anxiety or panic: Some people feel nervous, overwhelmed or panicked after using cannabis. 
• Paranoia: This can include feeling watched, unsafe or uncomfortable around others. 
• Problems with memory and focus: Cannabis can make it harder to concentrate, especially in school or college. 
• Low motivation or energy: Some people feel less motivated or find it harder to keep up with daily routines. 

Effects can change depending on the amount used and the situation.

Why do people use cannabis? 

People may use cannabis for different reasons, including: 

• Relaxing or switching off 
• Being around friends who are using it 
• Curiosity 
• Coping with stress or difficult feelings 

For some people, it stays occasional. For others, it can become more regular over time. 

When can cannabis become a problem? 

You might want to take a step back if: 

• You’re using cannabis more often than you planned 
• You feel like you rely on it to relax or cope 
• It’s affecting your mood, anxiety or confidence 
• You’re struggling with focus, school or motivation 
• You don’t feel like yourself without it 

These are signs that support could help. 

Cutting down or stopping cannabis 

Some people want to stop using cannabis completely. Others want to cut down. 

Things that can help include: 

• Reducing how often you use it 
• Avoiding situations where you feel pressure to use 
• Finding other ways to relax or deal with stress 

It can take time, and support can make it easier. 

You can also find more support on our young people’s support page. 

When should I get support? 

You might want to talk to someone if: 

• Cannabis is affecting your mental health 
• You feel anxious, low or paranoid after using it 
• You’ve tried to cut down but found it difficult 
• You just want advice without judgement 

You don’t need to wait until things feel serious. 

How Inspire can help 

Inspire provides free, confidential support for young people in West Northamptonshire. 

We can help with: 

• Talking things through 
• Support to cut down or stop 
• Advice that fits your situation 

You don’t need a referral or diagnosis. 

Getting support 

There are a few simple ways to get support: 

• Self‑referral – if you want help for yourself 
• Someone referring on your behalf 
• Support through school or other services 

If you’d like to talk, we’re here to help. 

You’re not alone 

Lots of young people have questions about cannabis or want to cut down. Reaching out is a positive step. 

If cannabis is affecting you, Inspire is here to help.