Independent Cannabis Consultant & Health Educator
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Presentations
Cannabis 101
Cannabis Legalization
Cannabis Legalization
This presentation aims to cover ALL the basics of understanding cannabis as a plant, product, and potential drug of abuse. Accurate and factual drug information will be delivered including basic botany, strains, cannabinoids, and varying effects. Practical “street” knowledge of common names, dosages, measurements, pricing, methods of ingestion, and paraphernalia will be shared with visual aids. The overall risk / benefit profile of this substance will be reviewed including effects of THC vs. CBD, signs of intoxication / overdose / dependence / withdrawal, and medicinal vs. recreational cannabis. Various weed “myths” will be demystified. Lastly, a preliminary introduction to the endocannabinoid systems will assist with understanding the widespread effects cannabis has on the brain and body.
Cannabis Legalization
Cannabis Legalization
Cannabis Legalization
This presentation aims to explore the complex historical, social, and political factors that have led to the legalization of recreational cannabis in Canada as of Oct. 17, 2018. We will walk through the logistical implementation of cannabis federally, provincially, and municipally while providing recent updates as this roll out is ever-changing. Differing perspectives on legalization from various communities including law enforcement, the cannabis industry, the political realm, healthcare, addictions, and social justice will be contrasted. Concerns related to the black/grey markets, retail and packaging issues, and cannabis industry marketing strategies will be highlighted. Lastly general public health and safety considerations as well as drug impaired driving laws, MTO reporting guidelines for physicians, and other international travel issues will be outlined.
Marijuana & Mental Health
Marijuana & Mental Health
Marijuana & Mental Health
Who is at risk for developing mental health issues in relation to cannabis use? Populations at risk will be reviewed alongside research into the connection between cannabis use and psychosis and the impact of cannabis exposure to the developing adolescent brain. Can cannabis be used medicinally to treat anxiety, depression, bi-polar disorder, psychosis, and other mental health disorders? What does the research say? What’s the evidence supporting the therapeutic use of CBD in psychiatry? What strains are the most helpful for treating symptoms of mental illness and which strains produce the greatest risk? What methods of use are the safest from a psychiatric perspective? Answers to these questions and key messages for individuals vulnerable to mental health concerns, who may be considering cannabis use, will be shared.
Cannabis Harm Reduction
Marijuana & Mental Health
Marijuana & Mental Health
A group participation exercise will illustrate the reality that we all engage in harm reduction practices daily. Harm reduction will be defined as a philosophy of practice, program model, and therapeutic attitude. The various types of potential physical, psychological, relational, financial, and occupational cannabis related harm will be reviewed. A wealth of practical strategies for minimizing and reducing negative consequences including safer methods of consumption, safe partying tips, and moderation guidelines will be shared. This discussion is grounded in a theoretical understanding of the substance use continuum, recognizing that patterns of use range from beneficial to dependent. Lastly, tips for engaging in non-stigmatizing conversations with cannabis consumers, who may benefit from learning about harm reductions strategies, will be offered.