SAY NOPE TO DOPE: Jake’s story – mental illness, psychotic symptoms, dropping out of university

Jake went to university to study to become a doctor. He became the front-person for NORML (National Organisation for the Reform of Marijuana Laws – very pro-legalisation) on campus. Every Friday at 4:20pm, he would host up to 60 people smoking cannabis. But then his use became problematic and he started having severe symptoms, including hearing voices, paranoia, & other physical effects, and had to eventually drop out of his degree and go on medication.

He went to university to study neuroscience and psychology, and ended up getting cannabis-induced psychosis and dropping out.

Hear Jake’s story, and his warning about the significant harm of weed, and its role as a gateway drug. #saynopetodope #VoteNO

WHERE TO GET HELP
Helpline – 1737 (NZ’s mental health and addiction helpline number)
Lifeline (open 24/7) – 0800 543 354
Depression Helpline (open 24/7) – 0800 111 757
Healthline (open 24/7) – 0800 611 116
Samaritans (open 24/7) – 0800 726 666
Suicide Crisis Helpline (open 24/7) – 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO). This is a service for people who may be thinking about suicide, or those who are concerned about family or friends.
Youthline (open 24/7) – 0800 376 633. You can also text 234 for free between 8am and midnight, or email [email protected]