Cannabis, often called marijuana, weed, pot, or grass, is a drug derived from the cannabis plant. It can be consumed in various ways—smoked, vaped, eaten, or even brewed into drinks. While many use it recreationally for relaxation or enjoyment, it’s increasingly being prescribed by doctors to address certain medical conditions and symptoms. Cannabis contains compounds that influence both the brain and body, altering perception and mood. However, it’s important to note that it can be addictive and may pose health risks for some individuals.
It May Affect Your Mental Health
Negative Experiences with Marijuana:
- Marijuana can cause unpleasant effects such as anxiety, fear, panic, or paranoia.
Mental Health Risks:
- It may increase the likelihood of clinical depression or worsen existing mental health disorders, although the exact reasons are still unclear.
Psychosis Risk:
- High doses of marijuana can induce psychosis, leading to paranoia, hallucinations, and distorted perceptions of reality.
- These effects are typically temporary and subside as the high diminishes.
Connection to Schizophrenia:
- Marijuana use may raise the risk of developing schizophrenia, a chronic mental health condition.
- Schizophrenia shares symptoms with psychosis (e.g., distorted reality), but it also includes persistent issues such as difficulty with speech, focus, and emotional expression.
Duration of Conditions:
- Psychosis triggered by marijuana is usually temporary.
- Schizophrenia, however, is a long-term and more complex disorder.
You may be experiencing cannabis use disorder if you:
- Crave weed
- Try to quit cannabis but fail
- Spend a lot of your time using cannabis
- Use more marijuana than you had planned to
- Miss out on time with family or friends to use pot
- Still use marijuana even though it causes you physical or mental problems
- Use pot while you drive or during other high-risk activities
- Need more weed to get the same high
- Have issues with learning, attention, or memory
Recognizing the risks associated with marijuana use, including its potential to lead to cannabis use disorder, mental health challenges, and even long-term conditions like schizophrenia, highlights the importance of making informed choices. While it may seem harmless to some, the possible negative effects on both the mind and body cannot be ignored. Prioritizing your mental and physical well-being by avoiding marijuana can help safeguard your health, maintain clarity, and support a more balanced and stable life.
保持清醒，拒绝大麻。-Stay clear-headed, refuse cannabis.
Reference: https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/addiction/marijuana-use-and-its-effects
