Addiction Prevention
Addiction Prevention & Cannabis — Concept & Help
Cannabis can bring joy — and it can cause problems. We talk about it openly. Without lecturing, but honestly.
If you have questions, are worried or just want to talk — we're here for you. Confidential and without judgment.
At BlattWerk e.V., membership is available from age 21 only. We deliberately set a higher minimum age to protect young people.
Our Concept
Education Instead of Trivialization
Evidence-based education about effects, risks and side effects — objective, without trivializing or dramatizing.
Early Detection & Intervention
Trained officers observe attentively and approach members showing signs of problematic consumption.
Counseling & Referral
Confidential counseling and referral to professional addiction counseling services when needed.
Membership from Age 21
We only accept members aged 21 and over — a deliberate decision to protect young people.
Naming Risks Honestly
Responsible use starts with knowing the risks. Here are the key facts — evidence-based and without scaremongering.
The brain continues developing until around age 25. Regular cannabis use during this phase can permanently affect cognitive abilities, memory and learning capacity. The younger the onset, the higher the risk.
Cannabis can trigger or worsen anxiety disorders, depression or, in rare cases, psychosis in predisposed individuals. THC-rich strains and high doses increase this risk. Those with a family history should be particularly cautious.
About 9% of all cannabis users develop a dependence over their lifetime. With daily use, the risk rises to about 25–50%. Typical signs: tolerance development, withdrawal symptoms (sleep disturbances, irritability), unsuccessful attempts to reduce.
Combining cannabis with alcohol, medications or other substances can cause unpredictable and dangerous interactions. The combination with alcohol in particular significantly amplifies the effects of both substances.
Cannabis use during pregnancy can affect child development. THC passes into breast milk. Cannabis should be completely avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
How Do I Recognize Problematic Use?
Not all use is problematic. But if you recognize yourself in several of these points, it's worth taking a closer look.
You use more frequently or more than you intended.
You have tried to cut down — but can't.
Your daily life, work or relationships suffer because of your use.
You need increasing amounts for the same effect.
You feel irritable, restless or sleepless when not using.
You withdraw from friends or activities.
You use cannabis to cope with stress, anxiety or sadness.
Recognizing one or two points doesn't automatically mean you have a problem. But it's a good reason to be honest with yourself — or to talk to someone.
Self-Assessment
This short test helps you better assess your use. 8 questions, anonymous, no data is stored.
1.How often have you used cannabis in the past 6 months?
2.How often were you "high" from cannabis in the past 6 months?
3.How often have you had a strong desire or urge to use cannabis?
4.How often has your cannabis use led to you not doing things you were supposed to?
5.How often has someone (friends, family, doctor) expressed concern about your use?
6.How often have you tried to cut down or stop using cannabis without success?
7.How often have you had problems with memory or concentration after using cannabis?
8.How often have you used cannabis in a hazardous situation (e.g. before driving)?
This self-assessment is based on the CUDIT-R (Cannabis Use Disorder Identification Test — Revised) and is for self-evaluation only. It does not replace a professional diagnosis. Your answers are not stored and never leave your browser.
Contact Persons
For questions about addiction prevention or counseling needs.
Addiction Prevention Officer
Jennifer Trebbin
"You can reach out to me anytime — confidential and without judgment."
External Contact Person
Angela Stetter
"No topic is too small — feel free to reach out."
What happens when I reach out?
Local Resources in Hildesheim
Free and optionally anonymous counseling — for those affected and their relatives.
DROBS – Drug Counseling Hildesheim
Caritas Addiction Services Hildesheim
Ecumenical Addiction Services (Diakonie/Caritas)
Further Reading
In our knowledge base you'll find detailed articles on these topics.
The addiction prevention concept of BlattWerk e.V. meets the requirements of the KCanG (§ 6 para. 3). This law requires cultivation associations to maintain a health and youth protection concept, appoint prevention officers and inform members about risks. In acute emergencies: call 112.
