Effects of Cannabis on the Teenage Brain

• Eastern Health, Turning Point, State Government Victoria
• National Cannabis Prevention and Information Centre (NCPIC).

This engaging animation shows how the teenage brain develops, and highlights the effects of cannabis on different brain regions, as well as its impact on behaviour. It presents complex and up-to-date neurobiological research in a way that is engaging and relevant for teenagers.

• Increased knowledge of cannabis-related effects and harms.

Developed by the team that produced "Under Construction: Alcohol and the Teenage Brain", this video presents complex, scientific information in a simple and engaging way. Creative animation demonstrates the development of the brain circuitry systems responsible for learning and memory, motivation and mood, and shows how cannabis affects the wiring of these circuits. The video explains why the adolescent brain is especially vulnerable to cannabis and explores social and occupational consequences of relevance to young people. This video has the potential to be included in either a Science or PDHPE context; however we note that it does not comprehensively cover Alcohol and other Drug items in the Years 7-10 PDHPE curriculum such as assertive decision-making and support-seeking.

*Review provided by researchers at the Matilda Centre for Research in Mental Health and Substance Use at the University of Sydney.