Cannabis is part of everyday conversations, campus culture and an evolving landscape of scientific research. According to the 2024-2025 Canadian Postsecondary Education Alcohol and Drug Use Survey (CPADS), 39 per cent of students used cannabis in the past 12 months. Yet despite its widespread use, questions and misconceptions remain about how cannabis affects our brains, bodies and overall well-being.

People use cannabis for many different reasons, and their experiences can vary considerably. For some, cannabis is associated with relaxation, recreation or social connection. Others may use it to manage stress, sleep difficulties or other concerns. While many people use cannabis without experiencing serious adverse effects, cannabis use is not without risks.

Understanding these differences is important, and it starts with informed, open and non-judgemental conversations.

Curious about cannabis? Have questions about its effects, potential risks or ways to reduce harm? Register and join the Cannabis Cafe on Fri. Nov. 13, 2026 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. in 207 Teraanga Commons. Join CU Spark, Stigma Ends at CU and Residence Life Services for an opportunity to learn, ask questions and have open, stigma-free conversations about cannabis. Dr. Kim Hellemans (Assistant Professor, Department of Neuroscience) and members of her research team will be available to answer questions, share insights from cannabis research and help facilitate informed discussions. No prior knowledge or personal experience with cannabis is needed – everyone is welcome!

There will be coffee, tea, pastries and snacks available. There will also be opportunities to win two Capital Hoops tickets and two $100 Uber Eats gift cards.

Quick facts about cannabis:

  • Not all cannabis is the same. Cannabis products can vary considerably in their potency, composition and effects. THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is primarily responsible for the intoxicating effects of cannabis, while CBD (cannabidiol) is another major cannabinoid that does not produce the same intoxicating effects. Products with higher THC concentrations are generally associated with greater risks of impairment and adverse health effects. For those who choose to use cannabis, Canada’s Lower-Risk Cannabis Use Guidelines recommend choosing products with lower THC concentrations or higher CBD-to-THC ratios. Understanding a product’s THC and CBD content can help people make more informed decisions.
  • How and when you use cannabis matters. The frequency of use, method of consumption and reasons for using cannabis can all influence its potential risks. Frequent or daily use, particularly of high-THC products, is associated with an increased risk of cannabis-related health problems. It can take up to four hours to feel the effects of edible cannabis, and it can affect individuals differently than other methods of consumption.
  • Cannabis can affect more than you might think. Cannabis can temporarily affect attention, memory, coordination and reaction time. These effects are especially important to consider when studying, operating equipment or driving. Avoid driving while impaired, and remember that combining cannabis with alcohol or other substances can increase risks. Be mindful that cannabis use affects everybody differently, and can negatively affect mental health for some.
  • Stigma can be a barrier to seeking support. People use cannabis for different reasons, and no single experience defines someone’s relationship with it. Using respectful, non-judgemental language and challenging stereotypes can help create spaces where people feel comfortable asking questions, discussing their experiences and accessing support. Offer your support and respect rather than trying to change or shame someone’s use.

Looking for support or more information?

Whether you’re curious about cannabis, want to learn more about safer use or are reflecting on your own relationship with substances, Carleton has resources available to support you.
Explore Carleton’s Safer Use Strategies for evidence-informed information about cannabis and harm reduction, or visit the Substance Use Health Supports and Resources webpage for information about available campus services and peer support.