Childrens mental health charity YoungMinds has conducted a self-selecting survey of approximately 700 young people, asking them about their experience of cannabis use.
Half reported having negative experiences as a result of using the drug, which ranged from paranoia, vomiting and fainting. Of those surveyed, 80 per cent had tried the drug before they were eighteen years old.
YoungMinds is calling for more research to be carried out into the effects of cannabis on still-developing brains. The charity is launching two publications, one for young people, and one for professionals working with young people, to inform them of the effects cannabis may have on their mental health.
Martin Barnes, chief executive of DrugScope, responded to the survey findings:
"This survey highlights the need to do more to inform young people of the potential risks and harms associated with the use of cannabis, and although cannabis use has been falling among young people over recent years, and is now at its lowest level for nearly a decade, we cannot be complacent.
"There is evidence that cannabis not only worsens existing mental health problems but may trigger - although the risk is thought to be small - some conditions such as schizophrenia.
"We support calls for more research into the possible long-term effects particularly of drug use among children and young people."
Source: www.youngminds.org.uk
Posted: 10th December 2006
For more information please contact Ruth Goldsmith in the DrugScope Press Office on 020 7940 7517 (07736 895563 out of hours) or at press@drugscope.org.uk
