10 Tips for Lower-Risk Cannabis Use
There is no cannabis use without risk!
The safest way to avoid health risks from cannabis is not to use cannabis at all.
If you’ve decided to use cannabis despite the possible risks, here are 10 tips for lower-risk cannabis consumption
1. No Cannabis Under 18 Years
The risk of addiction or other psychological and physical risks are higher, the earlier one starts consuming cannabis. The new law (July 2023) also states: No cannabis under 18 years. It’s even better to start consuming later to minimize the risks (keyword: brain development).
2. Only consume if you’re feeling well
Cannabis can lead to pleasant feelings and thoughts. However, cannabis does not help you solve problems in the long term, but it can exacerbate them. So do not consume if you are not feeling well.
3. No consumption during the following activities
Cannabis products temporarily affect your memory and concentration. So, no consumption of cannabis during activities that require a “clear head” e.g.:
- road traffic
- school/work
- sports
- operating machinery
- …
Safety before risk.
4. Do not consume cannabis regularly.
Cannabis consumption can lead to addiction. Daily or frequent cannabis use also increases the health risks. Take longer breaks from consumption. You will only know the role cannabis plays in your life when you can abstain from it for weeks or months without any problems.
5. Approach the Dosage Carefully
Cannabis is not just cannabis. The THC and CBD content in cannabis can vary greatly. To ensure that you have the desired experience, especially with unfamiliar products, approach the dosage carefully.
6. Avoid Mixed Consumption
If you want to fully enjoy the cannabis high, avoid mixed consumption. The combination of cannabis with one or more other psychoactive substances puts a heavy burden on the body and mind. Concurrent/near-time alcohol and cannabis consumption is also discouraged; this combination can cause nausea and vomiting among other things. Note: If cannabis is mixed with tobacco, regular consumption can also pose a risk of nicotine addiction.
7. Prefer Safer Forms of Consumption
In order to reduce the risks to the respiratory system and nicotine addiction, cannabis should not be smoked with tobacco. In general, smoking should be avoided, as well as deep inhalation or breath-holding. Safer forms of cannabis consumption: Vaporizing, eating, or drinking. When eating or drinking, the delayed onset of action should definitely be considered (see point 5).
8. Don’t take smoking pot too seriously
Being intoxicated is not better than being sober, just different. Make sure you also have other beautiful experiences. And after the high, plan enough time to rest and recover and talk to trusted people about your intoxication experiences.
9. If you belong to a certain risk group, you should abstain from cannabis.
Pregnant women and people with pre-existing conditions (e.g., lung diseases, heart complaints or diseases, and people who have had psychosis or have family members who have suffered from psychosis) should abstain from cannabis.
10. Seek help if you can’t control your consumption.
If others confront you about it or if you notice yourself that you are having trouble controlling your consumption, you should question your consumption and try to quit. If you cannot manage this alone, do not hesitate to seek help. See the Cannabis Know How Card “Where can I find help” or contact the:
Cannabis Hotline
- By phone: (+352) 49 7777 55, every Tuesday from 9–13 & from 14–17
- By email: email hidden; JavaScript is required
- By WhatsApp: (+352) 691 497 755
Here is a selection of more Cannabis Know How Cards!
If you notice that a person is not well after having consumed legal or illegal drugs, act responsibly and look after that person. If in doubt, phone the emergency number and administer first aid.