Marijuana and Mental Health

Marijuana (Cannabis) shares a close relationship with mental illness in several ways. Studies show that those suffering from a mental health issue might use marijuana at twice the rate of the general population. We’re not sure if this relationship is causal or a correlation; however, much research is being done on the benefits and deleterious effects of short-term and long-term chronic use. Along with alcohol, THC is a central nervous system depressant. As marijuana has become legal in Arizona, the industry is growing rapidly, as well as individuals using it for recreational purposes aside from medical reasons. Any mood-altering substance (Including chronic alcohol use) is not recommended while an individual is in treatment for a mental health issue. Though if someone is using cannabis for pain control, or psychological issues; they should mention this to their practitioner, before starting treatment.

One thing is quite certain is that the brain is developing through the age of about 24 years. Any sort of chronic cannabis and interference with this growth can harm the brain matter, and alter how the brain processes stress, pleasure, motivation, and memory. Following are some effects that might result from routine high-dose cannabis use. Most of the side effects of high-dose cannabis use are reversible in adults.

Side Effects of Chronic Cannabis Use

Those who use marijuana or cannabis seem to suffer from psychosis with much more intensity and for longer periods of time. Bipolar disorder and schizophrenia can be aggravated with psychotic features by the presence of THC in the system. Cannabis also intensifies depressive episodes, can cause suicidal thoughts, panic attacks, anxiety, and intensify traumatic thoughts for those suffering from PTSD. The American Psychiatric Association DSM V has a classification for Cannabis Use Disorder.

Environmental Triggers

Those who have a family history of mental health disorders, are genetically predisposed to a mental illness and should avoid marijuana as well as other drugs and alcohol. Marijuana can be a trigger that brings about an episode of depression, panic disorder, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia; which otherwise may not have manifested. As with anything in life, most people are much better off not relying on alcohol, cannabis, or recreational drugs to enjoy life. Some drugs used long-term can permanently damage the nervous system to the extent that an individual can never enjoy pleasure again and suffer permanent cognitive issues.