Marijuana is one of the drugs that are most often used nowadays. This substance, which seems to be cool, is really psychotropic and can have detrimental effects on the patient’s mental condition. Marijuana is a dangerous drug for various reasons, not the least of which is that it has adverse effects on the brain and the body that may take years to manifest. Chronic marijuana abuse can result in anxiety, memory loss, and depressive symptoms. Other effects include lung damage, persistent coughing, and a higher risk of heart attack and stroke.
Long-Term Effects of Marijuana
Chronic marijuana abuse has been associated with cognitive deterioration, including deficits in memory and learning. Even if they stop using marijuana as adults, those who start smoking marijuana consistently as children may have long-term cognitive impacts. The effects of marijuana are often unpredictable.
Children of mothers who used marijuana when they were pregnant may struggle to learn and solve problems, and long-term use may result in a number of additional unfavorable effects, such as respiratory issues.
Marijuana use has also been associated with depression and anxiety, which may make schizophrenia symptoms worse.
How Marijuana Affects Your Brain
Understanding marijuana’s long-term impact on a user requires understanding how the drug works in the brain. THC, the major chemical component of marijuana, is a chemically exact duplicate of the body’s own naturally produced endocannabinoids. Endocannabinoids control the production of neurotransmitters in the brain in order to have an impact. The body uses endocannabinoids for a broad range of functions, such as controlling appetite and metabolism, soothing the nervous system, and healing damaged tissue.
Due to the importance of endocannabinoids, the brain already possesses receptors for them. THC in marijuana is comparable to endocannabinoids, which sets it apart from other drugs. The use of marijuana and, in particular, its impacts on the brain resemble endocannabinoids’ physiological effects. Because of this, smokers often have memory issues, an increase in pain sensitivity, changes in their capacity to feel and control pleasant emotions and sensations, and a decrease in their capacity to organize and carry out physical activities.
Cannabis Dependence and Addiction
Cannabis substance dependency is a serious issue. As per NIDA, between 25 and 50 percent of regular users will eventually become addicted. Marijuana used for medical purposes is legal in some areas of the US. This drug is only obtained with a prescription and is never given carelessly or without considering the patient’s situation.
Marijuana Withdrawal
Marijuana abuse can result in dependence and withdrawal symptoms if quickly discontinued. Some of the marijuana withdrawal symptoms include:
- Lack of sleep.
- Irritability
- Variations in appetite
- Anxiety
- Depression
You’ll start to experience these symptoms after a day without utilizing it. Between days 6 and 10, the most severe of these symptoms often appear, disappearing after approximately two weeks.
Both inpatient and outpatient treatments are good alternatives for persons seeking treatment for marijuana addiction. Cognitive-behavioral therapy and other behavioral therapies are used in rehabilitation centers to speed up the healing process.
Help Is Available
Skyward Treatment Center is available to help you or a beloved one struggling with marijuana addiction in or near Dallas, Texas. Please contact us immediately to learn more about the therapeutic options and methods that could be effective for you.
