NACOC Warns Youth Against Cannabis Myths, Says It Can Impair Memory and Decision-Making

• The Director-General of NACOC warned young people in Ghana against misconceptions about cannabis.
• Cannabis use can affect the brain and impair cognitive functions, including memory, judgment, and decision-making.
• Major Gen. Mantey emphasized the need for accurate information to make responsible choices about substance use.
• The fight against drug abuse requires stronger involvement from parents, teachers, schools, and young people.

He said cannabis is a plant does not mean that it cannot affect you. It affects the brain, your memory and your ability to make sound decisions.

The Director-General of the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), Major General Maxwell Obuba Mantey, has sounded a warning to young people in Ghana about the dangers of cannabis. In an address to students and young people from across the country at the National Youth Conference, he emphasized that the plant-based origin of cannabis does not make it harmless.

According to Major Gen. Mantey, cannabis use can affect the brain and impair cognitive functions, including memory, judgment, and decision-making. He challenged claims that cannabis can make users smarter or improve their intellectual abilities, saying such misconceptions could encourage young people to experiment with the substance.

The NACOC Director-General urged young people to critically assess claims about drugs and rely on credible scientific information before making decisions about substance use.

As part of its efforts to reduce drug abuse, particularly among young people, the NACOC has been intensifying public education and prevention programmes. The Commission's Director-General emphasized that the fight against drug abuse cannot be left to law enforcement agencies alone, but requires stronger involvement from parents, teachers, schools, religious organizations, civil society groups, and young people.

Major Gen. Mantey also highlighted the potential for cannabis to impair memory and decision-making, a key risk factor for young people in Ghana. This may inform advice on substance use prevention and education programs, particularly for lawyers and compliance officers working with clients or organizations in Ghana.

The National Youth Conference provided a platform for young people from across the country to engage with NACOC on drug-related issues. The Director-General's message was clear: young people must be equipped with accurate information to make responsible choices about substance use.

According to Major Gen. Mantey, the effects of drug use can extend beyond immediate intoxication, potentially affecting education, relationships, productivity, and future opportunities. He encouraged participants at the conference to become ambassadors of drug-free lifestyles by sharing accurate information with their peers and communities.

Lawyers and compliance officers should note that the Director-General of NACOC has emphasized the potential for cannabis to impair memory and decision-making, highlighting a key risk factor for young people in Ghana. This may inform advice on substance use prevention and education programs.

Source: Original reporting via Myjoyonline.com