MARIJUANA (Cannabis) Although Marijuana was one of the most widely used illegal drugs in Canada, there was only limited research on the prevalence of Marijuana use, and its effects before it became legalized in Canada. The legalization of Marijuana served to reinforce the belief that there was no health risks associated with using Marijuana. Although medical research has now identified a number of health risks with the use of Cannabis, knowledge about the potential risks of use during pregnancy remain largely unknown by the general public. This article addresses the effects of Marijuana on the fetus, infants, and childhood development.
PREVELANCE OF USE: Marijuana is the most common psychoactive substance used by women of child-bearing age, and the most commonly used drug among pregnant women. On average THC levels are 7 times higher, than in the past, increasing the harmful effects of Marijuana.
MYTH: It is a commonly held belief that the Placenta which provides nutrients and oxygen to the fetus through the mother’s bloodstream does not cross the placenta.
FACT: THC rapidly crosses the placenta. Also Marijuana can stay in the mother’s body for weeks, depending on the strength, how often it is used, and the mother’s metabolism.

What are the Health Effects of Marijuana Exposure to the unborn fetus:
While some mothers might use Marijuana to treat the negative symptoms of pregnancy, such as morning sickness, and pain, the latest research shows that no amount of Marijuana is safe during pregnancy. The effects of Marijuana can be passed onto the fetus through the placenta. Research has indicates that infants exposed to Marijuana in the womb, when compared to mother’s who did not use Marijuana during pregnancy, found that it effected the baby’s mental and physical development, as well as higher risks of being born too small and too early. Fetal growth is an important sign of the baby’s wellbeing.

Your help is vital to saving lives. Be a hero today. Donations of money or time can make a big difference to a small local charity like SRWC Wellness Centre. For over 25 years, SRWC has helped people from all walks of life find their personal recovery path. SRWC supports recovery and harm reduction for substance abuse, addictions, and other mental health issues. You can donate over the phone by calling Cindy at 204-956-6650 ext. 101 or mail a check or a money order to: St. Raphael Wellness Centre Inc. 2nd floor, 225 Vaughan Street Winnipeg, MB, R3C 1T7. Donations can also be completed online.

Is your partner or adult child suffering from a substance abuse or mental health problem?
Learn about the recovery process, develop a plan for success, and retake control of your life. Our Family Program offers individual and couples counselling for friends and family of individuals suffering from substance abuse problems. Our Spring program begins on Monday evening, April, 25th, 2022. Spots are limited, register today! 204-956-6650 or [email protected].

Plants reduce feelings of anxiety and depression. Plants have shown an increase in creativity, both in school and the workplace. They found plants brought a 37% reduction in tension and anxiety, a 58% reduction in depression and a 44% reduction in anger and hostility. Studies showed an improvement in preschooler’s memory, and cognitive function when participants walked in nature. Children with ADHD had better concentration after a walk in the park than after an urban neighborhood walk. Taking breaks to view or be in nature helps restore everyone’s attention.

The physical work of gardening, preparing soil, planting seeds, watering and weeding produces good chemicals in the brain such as serotonin and dopamine. Garden work can also help reduce blood pressure, heart rate and cortisol levels. Low cortisol levels keep inflammation down and manages carbohydrates and blood sugars. Being physically active through gardening provides lasting wellness benefits. Physical exercise – digging, hoeing and watering uses balance, muscles, and strength. While all physical activity is beneficial, your emotions benefit too!

Living in or near green spaces, spending time in both natural settings, and cultivated green space can improve mood and reduce the negative effects of stress. Other positive outcomes include reduction in aggressive feelings and enhancement of overall well-being. Studies have found that exposure to indoor plants improved feelings of well-being in participants. Plants are the lungs of the planet, drawing in carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen back into the atmosphere. One of the best things about caring for indoor plants is the beautiful exchange that happens because plants depend on our care, and in turn, they take care of us by improving the indoor air quality we breathe.

SRWC is a unique, welcoming, recovery-oriented community, accompanying individuals, families and friends affected by substance abuse in their journey towards recovery. We offer, group individual, couples counselling, and family counselling and education programs during the day and evening, co-ed and gender specific programs and support for individuals and their families. The Access, program for those awaiting a program of their choice, Exploring Options participating in a recovery plan, gender specific Continuing Recovery Program, or our co-ed evening Work Sober Program focusing on recovery maintenance. We support your recovery by helping you find the services you need.