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How Bad Is Weed for You?: Dangers of Long-Term Marijuana Use
Marijuana is known for its safety. Marijuana’s long-term effects remain controversial. Chronic marijuana use has been linked to respiratory issues, mental illness, and addiction. Like tobacco smokers, marijuana smokers can develop chronic bronchitis, emphysema, and lung cancer. Chronic marijuana use can cause psychosis, depression, anxiety, and schizophrenia. Young marijuana smokers may damage their brains, making them more prone to cognitive and memory problems. Addiction to marijuana can cause cravings, anxiety, and irritability, making it hard to quit. Marijuana’s long-term health risks should be considered. Always consider risks before use.
Possible Risks and Complications of Long-Term Marijuana Use
- Chronic marijuana smokers risk bronchitis, emphysema, and lung cancer.
- Depression, anxiety, and psychosis are linked to chronic marijuana use.
- Addiction: Chronic marijuana use can cause cravings, anxiety, and irritability.
- Impaired cognitive function: Young marijuana smokers may damage their brains, resulting in memory and cognitive problems.
- Social and academic issues: Early marijuana use can affect social relationships and academic performance.
- Legal and financial issues: Marijuana use is illegal in many countries, and users can be fined or imprisoned. Due to its price, long-term marijuana use can also strain finances.
Effects of smoking weed
Smoking weed can be good or bad, depending on the circumstances. Marijuana causes euphoria, increased appetite, and altered time and space perception. Marijuana’s THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) stimulates the brain’s reward system, causing euphoria. This chemical-neural interaction can cause intense pleasure, heightened sensitivity, and relaxation. Weed has long-term effects. . Chronic THC use can alter brain structure and function, causing depression and anxiety. Smoking weed may impair lung function and increase lung cancer risk. Smoking weed may be enjoyable in the short term, but its long-term effects should be considered.
It May Affect Your Mental Health
Technology, like smoking weed through water pipes or smoking hand-rolled cigarettes mixed with hash oil, may alter our sense of mental health, according to recent research. Social media, like excessive use of water pipes, can cause anxiety, depression, and loneliness, lowering our self-esteem and increasing social isolation. Similar to video game addiction, smoking hash oil through hand-rolled cigarettes can disrupt our sleep, social skills, and physical activity. Online bullying can harm our mental health in the same way that smoking can harm our lungs. Therefore, although technology and smoking can be beneficial, we must be aware of their potential mental health risks and take steps to mitigate them. We must balance technology and smoking use with real-world activities and set limits on device and water pipe use. To stay mentally healthy with technology and smoking, we must take breaks from screens and have meaningful social interactions.
Short-Term Marijuana Effects
Some short-term marijuana effects are common among those who smoke cannabis. Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), marijuana’s psychoactive compound, binds to receptors in the brain and body, causing alterations in mood, perception, appetite, and coordination. THC enters the bloodstream and travels to the brain relatively quickly after smoking, which can cause time distortion, light and sound sensitivity, and color perception changes. Heart rate, dry mouth, and bloodshot eyes are other typical short-term effects of cannabis use. Long term marijuana use can result in cannabis use disorder or substance use disorder, along with other potential consequences such as cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome. THC-containing edibles may cause delayed onset and stronger effects than smoking, which in susceptible people, high THC doses can cause hallucinations or psychosis. For this reason, marijuana users who experience adverse reactions or extreme discomfort should seek medical attention immediately. Although the short-term effects of marijuana can be enjoyable, impairment can lead to accidents or risky behavior, especially when it comes to marijuana-impaired driving or operating heavy machinery – both of which are illegal and dangerous. As such, those considering marijuana use must weigh the pros and cons carefully beforehand.
Ten advantages of How Marijuana Affects Your Body and Brain
- Cannabis is a plant, making it more natural than some pharmacy products.
- Chronic pain: Cannabis may help treat chronic pain, which is difficult to treat with conventional medications.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: Cannabinoids in cannabis may reduce swelling and inflammation.
- Cannabis may help chemotherapy patients eat.
- Cannabis may relieve anxiety and depression, but more research is needed.
- Cannabis may reduce nausea and vomiting in chemotherapy patients and others.
- Sleep aid: Cannabis may help people fall asleep and stay asleep, but results vary.
- Cannabis may be less addictive than prescription drugs.
- Neuroprotective effects: Cannabis may help treat neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and multiple sclerosis.
- Wide availability: Cannabis may be more accessible than prescription pharmacy products in your area. Cannabis may be illegal in some places and subject to regulations.
How does marijuana affect the brain?
Marijuana contains delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, a mind-altering substance (THC). When marijuana is smoked or ingested, THC enters the bloodstream and binds to brain cannabinoid receptors, causing various effects. Perception, mood, and cognition change most. Marijuana can relax, euphorize, and distort time and space. It can also cause anxiety, paranoia, and worsen mental health conditions. . Marijuana use increases dopamine, which can cause addiction and substance abuse. Marijuana affects brain structure and connectivity as well as behavior and cognition. Regular marijuana use has been shown to shrink the hippocampus, which is important for memory and spatial navigation. Marijuana use also reduces brain connectivity between decision-making and emotion-regulating regions. Finally, marijuana affects brain function. Long-term and recreational use can cause harm, even if it relieves pain. More research is needed to understand how marijuana affects the brain and how to minimize risks.
Take Our Marijuana Addiction Self-Assessment
Self-assessment can help you determine if you or a loved one has a marijuana addiction. While everyone’s experience with marijuana use is different, some warning signs of addiction may include using marijuana despite negative consequences, spending a lot of time and money on obtaining and using the drug, feeling unable to control or reduce usage, and experiencing withdrawal symptoms when stopping. In addition, prolonged periods of marijuana use can lead to mental disorders, nausea and vomiting, and the same breathing problems caused by smoking tobacco. The drug affects the central nervous system, which can lead to addiction and withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety and irritability. Answer honestly to our marijuana addiction self-assessment: Have you ever felt guilty or ashamed about your marijuana use? Have you quit or cut back? Are you using more marijuana? Has marijuana affected your relationships, work, or other obligations? When you quit marijuana, do you get anxious, irritable, or other symptoms? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you may benefit from addiction counseling. Addiction is complicated and cannot be fully assessed by self-assessment. A professional counselor or addiction specialist can help you understand your drug use and the resources available to support your recovery if you’re concerned. Remember that admitting you need help is a sign of strength, and addressing addiction can lead to a happier, healthier, and more fulfilling life.
A Rise in Marijuana’s THC Levels
The average THC content of marijuana sold in US dispensaries has been rising annually, making it easier for people to vape weed for recreational or medical purposes. According to the National Institute of Behavioral Health Statistics, there has been a consistent increase in adolescent marijuana use over the past few decades, and this is in part due to the increased potency of THC. The University of Mississippi found that in 1995, law enforcement seized cannabis samples averaged 4% THC, but in 2014, THC averaged 12%. This rise in potency can also bring other chemicals into the body that could potentially result in lung illnesses or disease control complications. In 2021, some strains have 30% or more THC, which is concerning for opponents of marijuana legalization who worry about addiction, cognitive impairment, and psychosis from higher THC concentrations. As THC levels rise, some doctors believe younger users and those with mental health issues are at greater risk of cannabis side effects, while legalization supporters argue that increased potency helps with pain relief for chronic pain, anxiety, and depression. They also claim that consumers benefit from a wider variety of strains with different THC and CBD levels and ratios, including the non-psychoactive component of the plant believed to have therapeutic benefits. Regardless of one’s opinion, higher THC concentrations will continue to be an issue in the rapidly growing legal cannabis market as cultivators are under pressure to produce strains that give high yields, desired flavors, and an intense, predictable high. As lawmakers continue to debate cannabis regulation, they must navigate the potential consequences of the rise in marijuana’s THC levels.
Is weed addictive?
Weed—marijuana—is used worldwide. It contains hundreds of compounds, including tetrahydrocannabinol, from Cannabis sativa (THC). Marijuana is habit-forming but not physically addictive. . Brain changes can cause marijuana addiction. Quitting weed can cause irritability, anxiety, insomnia, and weight loss in addicts. Long-term weed use can also impair brain function, memory, and judgment. Marijuana addiction is less harmful than other addictions, but addicts should seek professional help. Therapy, support groups, and cognitive-behavioral therapy can reduce stress, cravings, and relapse. In conclusion, long-term marijuana use can cause psychological dependence and negative effects.
Effects of long-term marijuana use
Long-term marijuana use can harm health and cause addiction, making daily cannabis users more likely to develop a disorder. Research from the mental health services administration has found that chronic marijuana use can cause depression and anxiety, as well as impair memory and attention. Additionally, smoke weed can lead to bronchitis and chronic coughing, especially from hand rolled cigarettes. Exposure to secondhand marijuana smoke can also contribute to marijuana’s effects on impairing work, school, and other important tasks. Finally, it’s important to note that marijuana use can be expensive over time, adding up to the costs of potential health consequences.
It May Impair Your Brain
Alcohol’s effects on the brain are becoming clearer. Heavy drinkers struggle with memory, focus, and attention, which increases their risk of cognitive decline over time. Moreover, alcohol alters dopamine, serotonin, and GABA levels, which can affect mood, behavior, and mental health. The dangers of excessive drinking don’t stop there, as alcohol has been shown to reduce gray matter volume and disrupt brain communication, resulting in cognitive impairment over time. Alcohol also increases cortisol, which damages brain cells and causes inflammation. Long-term alcohol use damages the brain, causing cognitive, emotional, and behavioral issues that can lead to dementia and other impairments. While some research suggests moderate alcohol consumption may benefit the brain, it is important to drink responsibly and be aware of the risks of excessive drinking – especially when compared to the potential benefits of state medical marijuana laws. Furthermore, the use of cannabis addiction remains a controversial topic, as secondhand cannabis smoke and the psychoactive effects of the cannabis indica plant can also impair brain function.
Getting High from Passive Exposure?
Passive Exposure High? Marijuana smoke has long been controversial. . Some fear a “contact high.” Contact highs—what are they? A contact high is when someone feels some of the effects of marijuana without using it. Secondhand smoke may cause this type of high. Contact highs may not exist. Some users report them, while others are skeptical. Studies on the topic have yielded mixed results. It is possible to get high by inhaling secondhand marijuana smoke, but the evidence suggests it is unlikely. Most of the THC from smoke is absorbed by clothing or furniture before it can be inhaled. Passive marijuana smoke may not cause a strong high. Secondhand smoke concerns should still protect themselves in marijuana-using environments. Staying in well-ventilated areas or avoiding marijuana smoke may help.
Mental health problems
Mental health issues are global. Mental illnesses can cripple people’s ability to function, maintain relationships, and work. Mental health disorders include depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar, and schizophrenia. Genetic, environmental, and psychological factors often cause these conditions. However, proper care and support can treat mental health issues. Early intervention with medication, psychotherapy, and support groups can improve symptoms and quality of life. To reduce stigma and discrimination against mental health patients, it’s crucial to raise awareness and encourage open dialogue. We can help millions by diagnosing and treating mental health issues.
Physical problems
All ages have physical issues, including chronic pain, injuries, and disabilities that can impair mobility, independence, and quality of life for people worldwide. Unfortunately, the adverse effects of smoking weed or exposure to breast milk may also lead to chronic pain, impairing sensory perceptions which can limit daily activities and affect emotional and social well-being. Injuries such as fractures and sprains, often experienced by children exposed to these substances, can cause temporary disability and require medical care and rehabilitation to heal. Congenital conditions, accidents, and illnesses can cause severe disabilities that require not only extensive care and support but also medication, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, or surgery to manage physical issues. Living a healthy lifestyle can reduce physical issues and improve physical and mental health when identified, and proper treatment is sought.
Reports of Deaths Related to Vaping
Vaping-related deaths have increased risk recently. As of February 2020, the CDC reported 68 e-cigarette-related deaths in the US, with an increased risk noted among those with existing mental health problems. The CDC reported over 2,800 vaping-related hospitalizations, with many of the cases linked to THC-containing vaping products and smoking cannabis. However, some have been linked to nicotine e-cigarettes and smoke marijuana. Coughing, chest pain, shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, fever, and fatigue are vaping-related symptoms that can worsen for those with marijuana use disorders. Many experts believe that vaping liquid chemicals and additives, such as vitamin E acetate, a thickening agent in some THC-containing vape products, caused these injuries and deaths. Some states have banned flavored e-cigarettes and some cities have banned vaping products due to these increased risks and health concerns. As more research is done, these measures should prevent further harm to individuals and improve public health understanding of vaping.
Detailed Information about How Marijuana Affects Your Body and Brain
Body System | Effects of Marijuana |
---|---|
Respiratory | Like tobacco smokers, chronic marijuana use can cause bronchitis, emphysema, and lung cancer. Smoking marijuana causes coughing, wheezing, and other breathing issues. |
Cardiovascular | Marijuana can raise heart rate and blood pressure, which can be dangerous for heart patients. It raises heart attack and stroke risk. |
Digestive | High-dose marijuana can cause nausea and vomiting. It reduces appetite and weight. |
Immune System | Marijuana suppresses the immune system, making users more susceptible to infections. It can also impair infection and injury recovery. |
Reproductive | Marijuana affects male and female reproductive systems. It can reduce sperm count and motility in men and ovulation and menstruation in women. It can affect infant development through breast milk. |
Brain | Marijuana can impair cognition, memory, and learning. It can also affect mood and increase the risk of depression, anxiety, and psychosis. Long-term use can cause addiction, withdrawal, and cravings. |
Mental Effects
How Stress Affects Your Mind Any fight-or-flight situation causes stress. Prolonged stress can damage mental health. Stressors vary, but they can all affect mental health. Stress causes anxiety, depression, and anger. . Stress can also cause insomnia, making it hard to get enough rest to function. Chronic stress also causes brain changes that last. It can shrink the memory-and-learning hippocampus. It can also increase emotional amygdala activity. These changes can impair memory and cognition. It’s not all bad. Stress management can prevent these mental effects. Meditation, exercise, and therapy help manage stress. Recognizing and managing stress can also improve mental health. In conclusion, stress is a natural response to challenges, but we must recognize when it starts to harm our mental health. Mental and physical health are equally important. We can manage stress and prevent mental health issues with the right strategies and support.
Can a person overdose on marijuana?
Smoking weed or using hand-rolled cigarettes made from the cannabis plant can lead to altered senses, but can a person overdose on marijuana? Unlike opioids, marijuana has no lethal dose, so while drug abuse is a concern, an overdose is not fatal. That being said, a marijuana overdose can cause uncomfortable symptoms such as extreme anxiety, paranoia, disorientation, rapid heart rate, and vomiting. While these symptoms usually disappear when the high wears off, urgent medical attention is needed if severe symptoms or distress occur. It’s important to remember that marijuana’s potency can vary and a person’s tolerance can change depending on many factors, so it’s best to avoid overdosing by starting with a low dose and using marijuana in a controlled setting.
Likes and Dislikes about How Marijuana Affects Your Body and Brain
Likes:
- Cannabis relieves chronic pain.
- Marijuana relaxes and relieves stress.
- Marijuana may inspire creativity.
Dislikes:
- Marijuana impairs short-term memory and concentration.
- Smoking marijuana can cause chronic bronchitis and lung infections.
- Marijuana users may experience anxiety and paranoia.
- Marijuana use reduces motivation and productivity.
Review:
Marijuana affects people differently. . It’s important to use marijuana responsibly and understand the risks and benefits. As with any substance, marijuana users should limit their use. Marijuana’s impact on an individual depends on their situation.
What treatments are available for marijuana use disorder?
Behavioral therapies and medications can treat marijuana use disorder. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), a goal-oriented talk therapy, is often used to change negative thought patterns and behaviors. CBT can help people manage triggers and cravings and address underlying mental health issues that may be causing marijuana use disorder. Motivational enhancement therapy (MET) can help people who are resistant to change or treatment. To help people understand why they want to change, MET is nonjudgmental and empathetic. . Naltrexone, an antidepressant, and bupropion, a craving-reducer, are examples. It’s important to note that different people respond differently to marijuana use disorder treatment. A qualified healthcare professional can help determine the best treatment for an individual’s needs and circumstances.
What are the other health effects of marijuana?
Marijuana has health benefits and drawbacks. It is prescribed to relieve pain, nausea, anxiety, and other symptoms, but it has other health risks. Marijuana’s effects on lung health are significant. Marijuana smoke, like tobacco smoke, contains harmful chemicals that can irritate the lungs and cause chronic bronchitis and lung infections. Marijuana can also worsen asthma and other respiratory symptoms. Long-term marijuana use has been linked to cognitive impairment and brain development, especially in adolescents. Heavy use can also lead to anxiety, depression, and psychosis. Marijuana use increases heart rate and blood pressure, which may increase the risk of heart attack and stroke in susceptible people. Before using marijuana for medical or recreational purposes, weigh the pros and cons.
It Intensifies Alcohol’s Dangers
Society struggles with alcoholism. It causes heart, liver, and brain damage. However, mixing alcohol with other substances, especially drugs, can increase health risks. These dangers include overdose and brain damage from the combined substances. Alcohol can also worsen the effects of some prescription and illicit drugs, increasing accident and injury risk. Alcohol can also lead to risky sexual behavior, driving under the influence, and violent crimes. Mixing alcohol with other drugs increases its risks. Addicts must understand the risks and seek help. . In conclusion, alcohol’s dangers increase when mixed with other substances, so we must take substance abuse seriously and help people break the cycle of addiction.
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers about How Marijuana Affects Your Body and Brain
Q: What’s Marijuana?
A: Marijuana has over 100 cannabinoids. Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the plant’s psychoactive cannabinoid, is famous.
Q: How does marijuana affect the body?
A: THC and other cannabinoids bind to brain and body receptors, causing mood changes, memory loss, and increased appetite. THC raises heart rate and blood pressure.
Q: How does marijuana affect the brain?
A: Marijuana alters brain neurotransmission. THC binds to brain receptors, altering brain function and behavior. .
Q: What are marijuana’s short-term effects?
A: Marijuana use can temporarily alter senses, memory, concentration, heart rate, and coordination. Anxiety, paranoia, and hallucinations may occur.
Q: What are marijuana’s long-term effects?
A: Long-term marijuana use can lead to decreased motivation, respiratory issues, and mental health issues like depression, anxiety, and schizophrenia.
Q: Marijuana is addictive. A:Marijuana has a lower addiction potential than other drugs, but some people may become dependent and experience withdrawal symptoms when they quit.
Q: Is marijuana legal?
A: Marijuana laws vary by country and region. Some places allow medical or recreational use, while others don’t. Before using or owning marijuana, check local laws.
Q: How can I reduce marijuana risks?
A: Moderate use and avoiding early use of marijuana reduces its risks. Use marijuana in a safe and controlled environment and be aware of the risks.
Is marijuana a gateway drug?
Marijuana as a gateway drug has long been debated. Marijuana use may lead to more dangerous drug use. Marijuana lowers inhibitions and increases the desire for new experiences. This topic’s research is mixed. Some studies suggest a link between marijuana use and other drug use, while others suggest it may be a cultural or social phenomenon rather than a drug property. Drug use involves many factors, and correlation does not imply causation. Drug-prone people may try marijuana first rather than harder drugs. Many states have legalized marijuana for medical use, which may change public perception of it as a gateway drug. More research is needed to fully understand how marijuana use affects other drug use, but it’s important to consider all factors in this complex issue.
How Does Marijuana Affect a Person’s Life?
The cannabis plant has long been debated for its effects on the human body, and there is much to consider when it comes to drug abuse. Research shows that marijuana use immediately impairs short-term memory and attention span. Additionally, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration has highlighted the impact of chronic marijuana use on respiratory problems, reduced lung function, and mental health issues like anxiety and depression. It’s important to understand the effects of cannabis, especially when it comes to judgment and decision-making. While marijuana may relieve pain and improve mood, frequent use can lead to tolerance and dependence. Those living in illegal jurisdictions should also consider the long-term legal and social consequences, including criminal records, fines, and even incarceration – which can have a profound impact on job prospects and family relationships. Considering what does weed do to your body, it’s essential to weigh any potential benefits against the risks before using it.
Is marijuana addictive?
. Thus, researchers and policymakers have focused on it. Marijuana’s addictive potential is controversial. Marijuana is either highly addictive or not. Marijuana addiction? It’s complicated. Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) gives marijuana its euphoric effects. THC binds to brain cannabinoid receptors, releasing dopamine, a neurotransmitter linked to pleasure and reward. Frequent marijuana use alters the brain’s reward circuitry. This can make it harder for people to enjoy their favorite activities, leading them to rely on marijuana. Marijuana withdrawal can cause irritability, anxiety, and insomnia, suggesting it is addictive. Not all marijuana users become addicted. 9% of marijuana users become addicted, according to the NIH. Teens who start using marijuana are 17%, and daily users are 25-50%. Nicotine, alcohol, and opioids are more addictive. Finally, marijuana’s addictiveness is complicated. Although some users become addicted, not all do. Like any substance, marijuana’s risks depend on the user’s biology, environment, and use patterns.
What does weed do to your blood?
Weed temporarily raises heart rate. Smoking increases heart rate by 20–50 beats per minute for three hours. THC causes blood vessels to dilate, increasing blood flow and heart rate. If you have heart disease, this temporary heart rate increase could be dangerous. Weed lowers blood pressure. While this sounds good, it can cause lightheadedness or fainting. Because blood pressure keeps oxygen flowing to your brain, a sudden drop can deprive it of oxygen. Weed also causes temporary bloodshot eyes. THC can expand blood vessels, causing red eyes, especially in new users or heavy smokers. Marijuana’s short-term blood effects are usually mild and short-lived. Avoid smoking weed if you have a heart condition or faint easily.
What effect does weed have on eyes?
Cannabis sativa, or marijuana, is a popular drug. The amount, frequency, and method of marijuana use affect the eyes differently. Weed causes bloodshot eyes the most. Marijuana dilates eye blood vessels, increasing blood flow and causing a red or bloodshot appearance. Weed can also cause dry eyes. Itchy, gritty, and uncomfortable. Marijuana also affects intraocular pressure (IOP). . Marijuana may temporarily lower IOP in glaucoma patients, according to some studies. This effect is short-lived and not enough to offset the negative effects of weed on the respiratory system, cognitive function, and other organs. In conclusion, marijuana may help some eye conditions, but its side effects and risks make it unsuitable. .
Does weed reduce sperm count?
Weed’s potential effects on fertility, particularly in men, are widely discussed. Heavy marijuana use has been shown to affect sperm production. Cannabis’ psychoactive ingredient, THC, disrupts hormones and lowers testosterone, lowering sperm count. Marijuana smoking also increases ROS, which damage sperm. Cannabis smokers have a higher risk of male infertility due to reduced motility and abnormal morphology. However, different studies have shown different effects of weed on sperm health. Some have reported no changes in sperm quantity or quality, while others have linked its use to worse fertility issues. Men trying to conceive should limit or avoid weed use. Marijuana use in the month before fertility treatments like IVF can significantly lower success rates.
What does an edible high feel like?
Edibles take longer to work than smoking or vaping. Depending on the edible’s potency and the user’s metabolism, effects can appear within 30 to 60 minutes or two hours. The high is more of a full-body experience than smoking’s cerebral high. This can be intense, causing lethargy and disorientation. Edibles can also cause anxiety or paranoia, but only in large doses. Edible highs last several hours, unlike smoking or vaping. If one consumes too much, the experience can be more sustained but harder to manage. An edible high can cause euphoria, relaxation, or even nausea in different people. For a safe and enjoyable experience, start with a low dose and wait until the effects kick in before taking more.
Summary
Marijuana, also known as weed, is a drug that can significantly impact mental health. While some individuals turn to smoking weed to manage anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues, others may experience unpleasant side effects, such as paranoia, anxiety, and even psychosis. Long-term and heavy cannabis use can lead to a higher likelihood of developing mental health disorders, including schizophrenia. Additionally, high doses of marijuana can impair cognitive function, particularly in areas like attention, memory, and learning. The National Academies Press recommends further research to fully comprehend the relationship between marijuana and mental health. For individuals with preexisting mental illnesses, it is essential to consult with their doctor before using marijuana as a form of treatment.
Who would benefit from this
This summary can help anyone interested in marijuana’s mental effects. This may include people considering using marijuana for medicinal or recreational purposes, as well as healthcare providers, researchers, and policymakers interested in the risks and benefits of marijuana use. Before using marijuana, people with mental health issues should consider this information.
Comparision of Marijuana with other products
Pricing: Marijuana prices vary by product, quantity, and location. Due to legal restrictions or taxes, marijuana may be more expensive in some areas than others. Due to production costs, marijuana is more expensive than alcohol and tobacco.
Features: Marijuana products include dried flowers, edibles, oils, and tinctures. . Marijuana has more options than alcohol or tobacco.
Quality: Source and production affect marijuana product quality. High-quality marijuana is grown and processed carefully to maximize potency and minimize impurities. Due to its cultivation and production process, marijuana may be more contaminated than alcohol or tobacco.
Marijuana prices, features, and quality vary depending on many factors.
Statistics about How Marijuana Affects Your Body and Brain
Marijuana use can impair memory, concentration, thinking, problem-solving, judgment, and decision-making, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse. (https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/research-reports/marijuana/how-does-marijuana-affect-your-brain-body)
Marijuana can increase heart rate, paranoia, and hallucinations, according to the same source. (https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/research-reports/marijuana/how-does-marijuana-affect-your-brain-body)
JAMA Psychiatry found that adolescent marijuana use was linked to adult depression and anxiety. (https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamapsychiatry/fullarticle/2464591)
Smoking marijuana can cause chronic bronchitis and lung infections, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (https://www.cdc.gov/marijuana/health-effects.html)
Marijuana use was linked to schizophrenia in a meta-analysis published in Addiction. (https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/add.13535)
In 2019, 14.8 million Americans used marijuana in a month, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (https://www.samhsa.gov/data/sites/default/files/reports/rpt29393/2019NSDUHFFRPDFWHTML/2019NSDUHFFR1PDFW090120.pdf)
Chronic marijuana use decreased brain gray matter volume, which can affect cognitive function, according to a Journal of Addiction Medicine study. (https://journals.lww.com/journaladdictionmedicine/Abstract/2016/08000/Cannabis Use and the Development of Cortical.3.aspx)
According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 2.3 million Americans tried marijuana for the first time in 2019. (https://www.samhsa.gov/data/sites/default/files/reports/rpt29393/2019NSDUHFFRPDFWHTML/2019NSDUHFFR1PDFW090120.pdf)
- National Institute on Drug Abuse: https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/research-reports/marijuana/how-does-marijuana-affect-your-brain-body
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: https://www.cdc.gov/marijuana/health-effects.html
- American Psychiatric Association: https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/addiction/marijuana-use-disorder/what-is-marijuana-use-disorder
- Harvard Health Publishing: https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/the-health-effects-of-marijuana-from-recreational-and-medical-use-2016081910180
- Mayo Clinic: https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements-marijuana/art-20364974
- National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine: https://www.nap.edu/catalog/24625/the-health-effects-of-cannabis-and-cannabinoids-the-current-state
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration: https://www.samhsa.gov/data/sites/default/files/reports/rpt29393/2019NSDUHFFRPDFWHTML/2019NSDUHFFR1PDFW090120.pdf
- National Institutes of Health: https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/nih-releases-report-effects-marijuana-health
- Drug Policy Alliance: https://drugpolicy.org/marijuana-facts/marijuana-and-your-health-just-facts
- World Health Organization: https://www.who.int/medicines/access/controlled-substances/5.2_Cannabis_update.pdf