Marijuana Use and Your Mental Health
For many people, the accessibility of marijuana for medicinal and recreational purposes is a positive development. However, there are more and more well-documented and important facts to consider regarding marijuana use, especially if you experience a mental health disorder such as depression or anxiety.
Marijuana is considered to decrease stress and increase relaxation. However, marijuana is a depressant and can exacerbate symptoms of mental health disorders including Depression, Anxiety-related disorders, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, and any psychotic disorder, including Schizophrenia.
Using marijuana simultaneously with stimulants can be dangerous. When marijuana is used in combination with stimulants, such as medications for ADHD, the effects can offset each other and lead to an increased need for both drugs to have the same effect. Marijuana can have an adverse effect on your heart as well, when combined with ADHD drugs, such as Ritalin.
Currently, in the states that have legalized recreational use, it is important to research the strains and potency of the product. The percentage of THC in cannabis (marijuana) products has changed dramatically over time. Like alcohol, which ranges from light beer with 2% alcohol content to grain alcohol with 95% alcohol content, THC products on the market have a similar range of strengths. High potency is defined as THC greater than 15%. Because the THC concentration in cannabis has risen so dramatically, the marijuana used recreationally today barely resembles the marijuana that many adults may have used when they were younger. Essentially, it is a different drug with different side effects. As a result, some people will be more likely to experience mental health challenges when using such potent products.
Everyone who uses marijuana should do so with caution, as it can have unpredictable consequences, including worsening anxiety, panic attacks, and paranoia. Effects may vary greatly from person to person and between use. This is a topic you can discuss with your clinician to receive the support you need.
Rachel Brown, MSW, SWLC
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