Marijuana, also known as cannabis, marijuana, pot, or dope, refers to the dried flowers, leaves, stems, and seeds of the cannabis plant. The cannabis plant includes more than 100 compounds (or cannabinoids). These compounds include tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is impairing or mind-altering, as well as other active compounds, such as cannabidiol (CBD). CBD is not impairing, meaning it does not cause a “high”.
Cannabis can be used in a number of ways.3,4 Cannabis can be smoked in joints (like a cigarette), in blunts (cigars or cigar wrappers that have been partly or completely refilled with marijuana), or in bongs (pipes or water pipes).
Cannabis also can be mixed or infused into foods like cookies, cakes, or brownies (called edibles) and can be infused in drinks.
It can be vaped using electronic vaporising devices (i.e., e-cigarettes or vape pens) or other vaporisers.
Compounds (or cannabinoids) in marijuana can also be extracted to make oils and concentrates that can be vaped or inhaled. Smoking oils, concentrates, and extracts from the marijuana plant, known as “dabbing,” is on the rise. Health and safety risks exist for each of the different ways of using marijuana.
Yes. According to research, three out of every ten marijuana user may have a marijuana use disorder, which means they are unable to quit using marijuana despite the fact that it is causing them health and social problems. Marijuana use disorder is more likely to develop in those who start using marijuana before the age of 18 and in those that use it often (daily/nearly daily).
In addition, the concentration or intensity of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in marijuana products is rising and daily or near-daily marijuana usage is rising, both of which could increase the risk of addiction and other negative health consequences.
The signs that someone might have marijuana use disorder are:
Marijuana use, especially in large dosages and on a regular basis (daily or nearly daily), can cause disorientation, as well as unpleasant thoughts or feelings of anxiety and paranoia.
Marijuana users are more prone to experience both short-term psychosis (not knowing what is real, hallucinations, and paranoia) and long-term mental problems, such as schizophrenia (a type of mental illness where people might see or hear things that are not really there).
People who start using marijuana at a younger age and use it more regularly have a higher risk of developing psychosis.
Marijuana usage has also been connected to depression, social anxiety, suicidal thoughts, attempts, and deaths.
When you combine alcohol and marijuana, you're more likely to be impaired than if you only use one of them. A higher level of impairment can lead to a higher risk of physical harm. When you consume marijuana and cigarettes at the same time, you may be exposed to more toxic chemicals, which can put your lungs and cardiovascular system at risk (heart and blood vessels). In addition, marijuana has the potential to alter the way prescription medications work. Always consult your doctor about any medications you are taking or considering taking, as well as the potential negative effects of mixing them with other substances, such as marijuana.
No matter where you live, there are drug and alcohol rehab options for you to discover. Treatment providers are waiting to answer your questions. Get started today.
Cocaine addiction is a complex issue that can be influenced by powerful emotions such as guilt and shame. Guilt arises from the negative consequences of drug use, leading to feelings of self-blame and loss of control. On the other hand, shame affects an individual’s self-worth and may stem from past traumas or experiences. For those … Continued
Brief overview of the importance of finding purpose in addiction recovery Finding purpose in addiction recovery is not just a nice-to-have, it’s a must-have. Purpose gives direction and meaning to life, which can be incredibly powerful in the journey towards sobriety. It’s like having a compass that guides you through the ups and downs of … Continued
Understanding Cocaine Addiction If you suspect a loved one is suffering from cocaine addiction, it can be tough to know where to turn or what to do for the best. Cocaine addiction can have devastating effects on a person’s physical and psychological health, as well as their behaviour and all facets of their personal and … Continued
What is Alcohol Withdrawal? The uncomfortable process your body goes through when you try to stop drinking alcohol or can’t drink alcohol for whatever reason (for example, if you can’t acquire it) is known as withdrawal from alcohol, often known as the alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS). Your body will become accustomed to having alcohol in … Continued