“420” CANNABIS CULTURE

“420” is a code term that is vastly used and has become a symbol and a rallying point for cannabis culture.

It refers to the consumption of cannabis, as well as the annual celebration of cannabis on April 20th (4/20). On this day, cannabis supporters come together to smoke cannabis, advocate for legalisation and celebrate the plant’s culture. The 420 culture is not openely practised in Botswana, however, there are individuals and small indigenous groups that partake in 420 related activities. The law prohibits the use, possession and sale of cannabis. There are a range of penalities for this ranging from fines to imprisonment. Cannabis, also known as marijuana or weed, is made from dried flowers and leaves of the cannabis plant. It is a greenbrown mixture of dried, shredded flowers and seeds. Although this is celebrated internationally, cannabis smoking is addictive and it is possible to develop a cannabis addiction or a cannabis use disorder.

Effects of Smoking Cannabis

Short-term effects

• Memory and cognition: short-term

memory and cognitive function are impaired, which affect learning and decision-making.

• Anxiety and paranoia: increased

doses of cannabis have been known to induce anxiety or paranoia

• Heart rate and blood pressure:

Cannabis can increase heart rate and blood pressure, potentially posing risks to individuals with cardiovascular issues

• Dry mouth and bloodshot eyes

Long-term effects • Dependency and addiction • Respiratory issues: these can be

similar to those of tobacco smokers, for example chronic bronchitis and coughing

• Cognitive effects: Prolonged cannabis

use, especially starting at a young age, may affect cognitive function and academic achievement

• Mental health: There is evidence

linking cannabis use to an increased risk of mental health issues, including schizophrenia, especially in individuals with a predisposition to such conditions.

Immediate and Noticeable effects

There are serveral signs to look out for that someone may have recently used cannabis. These vary depending on factors such as method of consumption, the potency of the cannabis, and an individuals tolerance level.

• Bloodshot eyes: cannabis use causes

blood vessels in the eyes to dilate, leading to redness in the eyes.

• Elevated heart rate: an incresed

heart rate may be noticeable through palpitations or an accelerated pulse.

• Dry mouth: this is often referred to as

cotton mouth, which leads to increased thirst.

• Increased appetite: usually referred

to as the munchies, cannabis stimulates appetite leading to food cravings.

• Delayed reaction time: it impairs

cognitive functions and slows reaction times, leading to delayed responses in conversation or actions

• Changes in coordination: it affects

motor skills, resulting in clumsiness or difficulty with tasks that require precision.

• Changes in perception: this usually

leads to heightened sensory experiences, changes in time perception, or alterations in the perception of colours and sounds.

• Relaxed demeanour: Cannabis often

induces feelings of relaxation, happiness and euphoria, leading to a calm conduct.

• Distinctive odour: Cannabis has a

distinctive smell that can linger on clothing, breath, and in the surrounding environment. The scent is often described as skunky or earthy.

BOSASNET offers counselling services to people experiencing problems with substance use, depression, anxiety, stress, anger management and adjustment issues. If you think that you, or someone you know may have a problem with marijuana use or other substances, please contact BOSASNET to speak to a counsellor. Our Gaborone line is +267 3959119 or +267 72659891. If you are in Tsabong or surrounding areas, contact +267 6540010 or +267 78114234/ +267 78114214. We are also available on Facebook, Instagram, Whatsapp, Twitter, Linkedin and email (admin@bosasnet.org. bw).

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