While there has been an uprise in cannabis use, there is still a plethora of misinformation people have, perhaps, unintentionally been led to believe. The effects it has on mental health are not always well understood. There have been growing concerns regarding cannabis use and mental health disorders. This especially affects those with a history of addiction or experiencing mental health problems. This is particularly important for people in high-pressure environments where stress and anxiety can fuel substance use.
The following article seeks to detail how cannabis impacts mental health and what you need to know about its risks and effects.
How does cannabis affect mental health?
Cannabis affects mental health, and the brain in particular, in multiple ways. The primary psychoactive compound, THC, interacts with the brain’s endocannabinoid system. This system regulates mood, memory, and even perception. Many often use cannabis to achieve short-term relaxation or euphoria caused by the manipulation of this system.
However, the effects of cannabis are complex, especially when used in frequent or high doses. For some, cannabis use may exacerbate symptoms of mental illness. Research shows that cannabis use may contribute to developing or worsening anxiety, depression, and other mental health disorders.
The other compound in cannabis, cannabidiol CBD, is often promoted for its potential therapeutic effects, like reducing anxiety. Because some studies suggest that CBD may help, these specific cannabis products have become more popular, though it is important to understand that they can vary in THC and CBD content. Due to the variability of many cannabis products, it poses a challenge in predicting how it will affect your mental health.
Can cannabis use lead to mental health disorders?
Cannabis use can contribute to the development of mental health disorders. Those with a family history of mental illness are at a higher risk of developing issues when using cannabis. Young people, whose developing brains are more susceptible, are particularly vulnerable to the harmful effects of cannabis. Research shows that regular cannabis use during adolescence increases the likelihood of mental health problems in adulthood.
It has also been found that cannabis use is linked to psychotic disorder development in those predisposed to mental illness. Moreover, frequent cannabis use may cause, or even worsen, psychotic symptoms like hallucinations and delusions.
What are the long-term mental health effects of cannabis use?
The long-term effects of cannabis use can be significant, especially for individuals who started when they were young. In addition, higher rates of anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation have been typical for those who use regularly. The research shows that individuals with cannabis use disorder are more likely to struggle with mental health problems such as anxiety and depression.
Studies show that cannabis use during adolescence can affect cognitive function and increase anxiety or depression later in adulthood. People with mental illness who regularly use cannabis may find that their symptoms worsen over time, making it difficult to manage existing conditions of a mental and physical nature.
Is there a link between cannabis use and anxiety?
There is a well-documented link between cannabis use and anxiety disorders. Though some think it helps anxiety, studies show that heavy cannabis use can increase the risk of developing anxiety issues. It is important to discuss your usage of medical marijuana with your doctor to mitigate the unforeseeable problems.
Can cannabis use cause psychosis?
Cannabis has, indeed, been linked to psychosis. Psychotic symptoms include paranoia, delusions, and hallucinations. These may be triggered by heavy cannabis use, especially in individuals with a predisposition to mental health conditions like schizophrenia. Though it is less likely for these effects to occur when engaged in the casual use of cannabis, it is high for those who begin at an early age. Moreover, if an individual has a family history of schizophrenia or other mental health disorders, the connection between cannabis and psychosis-related symptoms can be stronger.
What are the risks of using cannabis for mental health?
Though some individuals believe using cannabis will help their mental health, it is possible its use can exacerbate symptoms rather than alleviate them. Cannabis use disorder poses issues, making the managing of mental health more challenging.
One of the primary concerns, however, is the fact that cannabis use affects everyone differently. It does not seem worth the risk even to try if the individual has a history of mental health-related concerns. Predicting how someone will react to it is very difficult. Some might feel relief, while others may feel an intensification of issues they have struggled with for years, worsening conditions in the long run.
Is cannabis safe for treating mental health conditions?
Because it is difficult to predict how it may affect someone with mental health conditions, it is difficult to speak about its safety generally. Some research points to the potential benefits of cannabidiol CBD for anxiety and other disorders. However, cannabis as a whole is not considered a first-line treatment for mental health conditions. Individuals with mental health problems should be cautious about resorting to the use of cannabis, especially since it can worsen their symptoms.
Treatment for Marijuana Addiction and Co-Occurring Disorders at Fifth Avenue Psychiatry
Help is available at Fifth Avenue Psychiatry if you or a loved one is struggling with cannabis use disorder. If you are considering cannabis use for a mental health condition, please see one of our expert specialists to get the best advice possible before proceeding. At Fifth Avenue Psychiatry, we specialize in treating our clients with the utmost care, offering tailored treatment plans that address unique needs.
Reach out to us today to begin your recovery journey.
Inquire at (212) 734-0506
