Many individuals that use marijuana often do so because of its sedative qualities. They enjoy the feeling it gives them, and some use it medicinally to treat pain, mental health concerns, or chronic health issues. However, marijuana may not be as helpful for mental health concerns as many people believe, specifically depression. While it may help symptoms initially, marijuana use can cause further problems with depression than most people realize. By learning of marijuana’s impact on depression, individuals can make wiser choices regarding treatment options, thus getting the help they need to manage their symptoms successfully.
To understand how marijuana can affect depression, it is first necessary to know how it affects your body. The sedative effects of the drug can make your limbs feel heavy and make time feel slower. Over time, you may develop breathing problems due to smoke inhalation as well as an increased heart rate after smoking. Long-term smokers may develop Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome, resulting in stomach pain, repeated vomiting, nausea, dehydration, and weight loss. However, the significant effects of marijuana use occur in the brain.
Marijuana affects the brain with short and long-term effects due to the THC consumed. THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is a compound found in most cannabis plants. It is responsible for interacting with cannabinoid receptors in the brain to produce the “high” that many individuals describe while using marijuana. These interactions affect thinking, memory, time precipitation, coordination, and pleasure. However, there are three parts of the brain that marijuana interacts with that can significantly impact depression:
Because of the various ways marijuana affects the brain, it is not difficult to see how it can damage the brain’s normal functioning. The drug changes the amounts of chemicals and their balance within the brain, thus causing complications for individuals struggling with depression. Numerous studies have been done to understand these effects; however, many consider many take into account outside environmental factors such as social and familial factors.
A study published by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine found that cannabis can increase the risk of depressive disorders in people that use the drug. Past studies provide further insight, such as an article published by The Lancet in 2007 about cannabis use and mental health outcomes. This study found that cannabis use can increase a person’s risk of depression and other psychiatric conditions.
While many people believe marijuana can help manage symptoms of depression, understanding the risks of medical marijuana is crucial to maintaining a happy, healthy life.
As of November 2020, 36 states have approved cannabis for medical purposes. This legalization means that more individuals are using the drug to help manage medical symptoms from chronic illnesses to mental health disorders. Many receive treatment for depression through medical marijuana; however, there can be adverse side effects and risks.
Many individuals rely solely on marijuana for managing their depression; however, the drug should not be the only treatment used. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and antidepressants have shown increased effectiveness in reducing depression symptoms.
While medical marijuana typically has higher CBD levels and lower THC levels, it is still possible for individuals to become dependent on it. Some may even use recreational marijuana to self-medicate, resulting in worsened symptoms of depression and even addiction. As the person continues to self-medicate, their brain’s reward system will begin to associate usage with pleasure, thus reinforcing the action. Over time, the person will start to use marijuana due to physical dependence rather than medical purposes. This repeated use can worsen symptoms of depression and anxiety, thus leading to further usage in an attempt to manage these symptoms.
For these reasons, seeking out proper medical attention for mental health concerns is crucial. If you believe you have a marijuana addiction, contacting a local treatment center can help you get sober and maintain a sober lifestyle. Don’t fall victim to worsened depression because of your marijuana use.
Due to marijuana being legalized by over half the country, the increase in users over the past few years is striking. Many may not realize the harmful effects of long-term marijuana use, especially for conditions such as depression, as many may use the drug to manage depression symptoms. By understanding the impact of marijuana on the body, specifically the brain, and the risks of medical marijuana, individuals can make informed decisions regarding their use and treatment options. When it comes to depression, seeking professional medical help could save you from the adverse effects of marijuana use. NorthStar Transitions specializes in treating patients with addiction and mental health disorders. Thanks to our various programs, including traditional and experiential therapies, wellness and nutrition, and family education, we have seen numerous patients find success in recovery. For more information on our program, call us today at (303) 558-6400. Your healing begins today with NorthStar.
