Teen life ‘hard enough without being stoned’
The message to teenagers who may be tempted to try the drug is part of a national radio and poster campaign.
Recent figures show 24% of people in the 15-34 age bracket have used cannabis at some stage.
A 2003 study showed the lifetime use of cannabis by Irish teenagers is twice as common as the European average at 39% compared to 21%.
Many teenagers perceive cannabis as a safe, organic or natural substance. Yet, says the National Drugs Awareness Campaign (NDAC), it contains more than 400 chemicals. Cannabis here has also increased in potency in recent years.
NDAC warns it can have physiological effects.
A spokesperson said: "Smoking cannabis has been shown to affect short-term memory, concentration and motor skills in young people.
"Due to the high levels of tar that are laid down when smoking 'joints', cannabis use increases the risk of respiratory diseases such as chronic bronchitis, throat and lung cancer."
The campaign also aims to raise awareness among parents of the widespread availability of the drug.
Cannabis use can trigger paranoia, anxiety, panic or confusion, while some users may experience delusions or hallucinations. Schizophrenia and psychotic illness can occur in vulnerable people particularly where there is a family history of mental illness or depression.
HSE education officer Esther Wolfe warned that some individuals who take drugs are more susceptible to developing problems than others for reasons that may not be predictable.
Information leaflets are available by calling 1850 719819 or visiting www.drugsinfo.ie
