Thu Feb 13 04:21:43 UTC 2025: ## NIMHANS Launches Digital Resource to Combat Rising Cannabis Use Among Youth

**Bengaluru, February 13, 2025** – The National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences (NIMHANS) in Bengaluru has unveiled Pre-CURB, a new digital resource aimed at preventing cannabis use and promoting responsible behaviour among young people. The resource, launched at a workshop for college students, addresses the growing concern of cannabis use among youth globally and in India.

Pre-CURB, developed by a team of NIMHANS researchers, tackles the issue through three sections: It details the adverse health effects of cannabis, debunks common misconceptions about its safety and addictive potential, and offers strategies for avoiding cannabis use. These strategies include building strong social support networks and adopting a healthy lifestyle.

The initiative comes in response to a 2024 NIMHANS study revealing low risk perception regarding cannabis use among Bengaluru college students. The resource incorporates feedback from focus groups and expert consultations. Dr. Prasanthi Nattala, Professor and Head of the Department of Nursing at NIMHANS, highlighted the resource’s comprehensive approach, stating that it provides factual information and practical advice.

The workshop accompanying the launch also included sessions on broader health and wellness topics, emphasizing a holistic approach to student well-being. Experts discussed stress management, healthy eating, and physical fitness. The increasing prevalence of cannabis use among Indian college students, ranging from 6.8% to 36% according to Dr. Meena K.S., Professor and Head of the Department of Mental Health Education at NIMHANS, underscores the urgency of such educational interventions. Despite its cultural significance in some Indian contexts, cannabis remains illegal in the country. NIMHANS hopes Pre-CURB will contribute significantly to preventative efforts.

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