Connecticut Cannabis Safety and Awareness

 

Signs and Symptoms of Substance Abuse

  • Increased Tolerance: Needing more cannabis to achieve the same effects.
  • Loss of Control: Using more cannabis than intended or unable to reduce usage.
  • Neglecting Responsibilities: Ignoring work, school, or family obligations due to cannabis use.
  • Withdrawal Symptoms: Experiencing irritability, anxiety, or sleep disturbances when not using cannabis. 
  • Using to Cope: Relying on cannabis to manage stress or emotional issues.
  • Continued Use Despite Problems: Persisting in use even when it causes social or health issues.
 

Opportunities to Participate in Substance Abuse Programs
If you or someone you know is struggling with cannabis misuse, help is available.

Support and Recovery Resources:

  • Local Rehabilitation and Counseling Services: Contact healthcare providers in your area for assistance.
  • Hotlines: Confidential support is available 24/7. 
    • SAMHSA National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
  • Support Groups: Join organizations such as Marijuana Anonymous (MA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA) for peer support. 
  • Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs): Many employers offer confidential services to assist with substance use issues.
  • Online and Telehealth Therapy: Access virtual counseling services for flexible support options. 
 

Limitations on the Right to Possess and Use Cannabis in CT

  • Age Requirement: Individuals must be 21 years or older to legally possess and use cannabis.
  • Possession Limits:
    • On Person: Up to 1.5 ounces of cannabis.
    • At Home or in a Locked Vehicle: Up to 5 ounces stored securely.
  • Public Consumption: Consuming cannabis in public spaces is prohibited.
  • Driving Under the Influence (DUI): Operating a vehicle while impaired by cannabis is illegal and subject to penalties.
  • Federal Property: Cannabis remains illegal under federal law; possession and use are prohibited on federal lands and properties.
  • Employment Policies: Employers may enforce drug-free workplace.
 

Safe Techniques for Proper Use of Cannabis and Paraphernalia

  • Start Low and Go Slow: Begin with a small dose to understand your tolerance and the effects.
  • Secure Storage: Keep cannabis products in child-proof containers and store them away from children and pets.
  • Clean Equipment: Use clean and properly maintained paraphernalia to prevent health risks.
  • Avoid Mixing Substances: Do not combine cannabis with alcohol or other drugs.
  • Ventilation: Ensure consumption area is well-ventilated.
  • Legal Compliance: Adhere to local laws regarding where cannabis can be consumed.
 

Forms of Consumption

  • Inhalation: Inhalation of flower through pre-rolls, or pipes; effects are typically felt quickly.
  • Vaporizing: Heating cannabis or cannabis oil without combustion; may reduce exposure to harmful substances.
  • Edibles: Ingestible products such as gummies or baked goods; effects have a delayed onset and can be longer-lasting.
  • Capsules/Tablets: Ingestible dosage form with a range of potency. Effects have a delayed onset and can be longer-lasting.
  • Tinctures and Sublingual: Liquid extracts placed under the tongue for rapid absorption.
  • Topicals: Applied to the skin for localized relief.
  • Concentrates: Inhaling vapor from concentrated cannabis extracts; produces strong effects and is not recommended for beginners.