Weed and Speed
Weed – The Effects of Cannabis
There is no safe level of drug use. Use of any drug always carries some risk.
Immediate Signs of Weed Use
The most immediate signs of smoking weed are dilation of the blood vessels in the eyes (making them bloodshot), increased heart rate, increase in appetite and memory impairment, along with difficulty paying attention or solving problems. But the real reason people abuse the drug is for the euphoria that may last three to six hours. When monitoring for symptoms of weed use, there may be reactions of anxiety, fear or panic. Hallucinations, paranoia and delusional behaviour can be symptoms of weed use that is very potent, or consumption of a large amount.
What Are Some Signs and Symptoms of Weed Use?
Cannabis affects every individual differently.
Paraphernalia:
- Pipes
- Sleepy, lethargic
- Increase cravings for snacks
- Very small bottles of oil
- Cigarette rolling papers
- Small metal clips
- Eye droppers
Change in Actions:
- Confusion and lack of focus
- Unusually talkative
- Dropping studies or usual activities
- Misjudging time
- Secretiveness
Physical Change:
- Bloodshot eyes
- Fast heart rate
- Lack of coordination
Speed – The Effects of Speed
“Speed” refers to a class of illegal drugs called amphetamines that act as central nervous system stimulants. When a personuses speed, the body’s systems induce an effect similar to a constant state of panic with increased heart rate, body temperature, attention, alertness, and restlessness followed by a crash of exhaustion.
Short Term
Speed Use Signs
The central nervous system controls the fight or flight response. When someone uses too much speed, the central nervous system activates body systems to a level higher than when someone is in danger. Imagine being in a constant state of panic. The effects of speed normally last 2-4 hours and include:
Long Term
Speed Use Signs
Abusing speed is dangerous. When someone abuses amphetamines for a long time, the symptoms of using are exaggerated and permanent. They include:
- Increased heart rate and blood pressure
- Greater attention and alertness
- Restless and jittery
- Increased movement
- Exaggerated startle response
- Suppressed appetite
- Insomnia
- Increased body temperature
- Irritability and impatience
- Jitteriness
- Paranoid hostility
- Repetitive aimless activities
- Heart problems and chest pain
- Skin flushing
- Hallucinations
- Nausea and vomiting
- Weight loss
Australian Helplines
Reach out https://au.reachout.com/tough-times/addiction
Lifeline 13 11 14 and online ‘crisis support chat’ provides short- term support for people who are overwhelmed, are finding it difficult to stay safe. This service is available 7:00pm – 4am (AEST), 7 days a week. Calls to Lifeline are free from mobile phones.
Kids Helpline 1800 551 800 – also has online chat and email counselling (for kids and teens aged 5–25 years)
Mensline 1300 789 978
QLife (LGBTI+, 3pm to 12am) 1800 184 527
Are you ready to make a change?
You are very welcome to get in touch, for any enquiries or questions you may have, or to schedule an appointment.