What is Ganja, Cannabis, Marijuana, Pot?
Ganja is a *depressant drug. It is made from the leaves of the Cannabis plant. THC (Delta 9 tetrahydrocannibinol) is one of 400 chemicals found in ganja. THC is what causes the mood-altering effects of ganja.
Ganja (cannabis) comes is several forms. Ganja is a green tobacco-like mixture of leaves. Hashish or hashish oil are stronger forms of ganja. Hashish is the resin of the plant and it's sold as oil or small compressed blocks.

Various street names:, dele, daun, cimeng. Pot, Weed, Marijuana, etc
A depressant affects the nervous system by slowing down activity in the brain.

What are the immediate effects of Marijuana?
Ganja affects people in different ways. Some people experience stronger reactions than others. The most common reaction to Ganja is to feel 'stoned' or 'high'. There are other effects that include:
paranoia
vomiting
loss of coordination
confusion
increased appetite
red eyes
hallucinations

What are the long-term effects of Ganja?
Research has shown that there can be more serious effects if Ganja is used regularly.
Some of these effects include:
High risk of bronchitis, lung cancer and respiratory diseases (ganja has twice as much tar as a cigarette)
Loss of interest in activities, loss of energy, boredom
Impaired short-term memory, logical thinking and coordination
Less sex drive
Lowered sperm count/irregular menstrual cycles
Severe psychotic behavior
Damage to the immune system
Addiction
Ganja can be addictive and dependence may result, making the user need stronger and more regular doses to reach the original effects.
Driving
Ganja affects motor and coordination skills, vision and the ability to judge distance and speed. This can make driving or riding with someone 'high' on Ganja very dangerous.
Memory and Learning
Ganja affects the memory. It is difficult to think logically while THC is in the body. Ganja can also make it difficult to learn even simple tasks, so a person may do badly at work or study.

Other Drugs
Ganja is considered a 'gateway' drug because someone who uses Ganja is much more likely to use other stronger drugs.

Tips for Staying Drug-free
Make a commitment to be drug-free
Remind yourself often of your drug-free commitment
Choose your friendships
Be aware of the dangers
How to say NO to drugs
"I'm not into that"
"No thanks"
"My parents would not approve"
"I don't have time for that"