ByWe have grown accustomed to hearing the term marijuana associated with recreational use, there are some benefits but the on the other side also there are the long-term effects of marijuana use. With more states and countries beginning to legalize cannabis, it is easy to go out and find cannabis products. Oh, no! You even don’t need to go out, you can find everything online. With all these opportunities and benefits of the plant, it’s important for us to understand just how this plant affects our bodies in the long run. In this post, we will discuss the potential long-term effects of marijuana use on mental and physical health as well as how it affects our social life Let’s be honest with each other and stop smoking for a while!
Table of Contents
Mental Health Effects of Marijuana Use
1. Short-Term Effects of Marijuana Use
Cognitive Impairment
According to a study, it has been found a relationship between marijuana use and lower scores on tests that measure attention, memory, and learning. Additionally, there are other researches that have shown an increase in negative side effects. Further researches need to be done to determine why some people seem to be affected by marijuana more severely than others so that appropriate preventative measures can be taken even before potentially hazardous exposures occur. In addition, the impact of marijuana use on cognitive impairment was greater than that of alcohol or tobacco use.
Impaired Coordination
Regular marijuana users can experience trouble with the coordination needed to drive a car, operate machinery or even play sports. It’s important for regular marijuana users to be aware of their decreased levels of coordination since it puts not only themselves at risk but anyone around them as well. In addition, marijuana impairs short-term memory so it can become a challenge to recall instructions or tasks that require step-by-step problem-solving skills. Alternatives to smoking marijuana should be explored if these risks are too high.
Increased Anxiety
We know that marijuana can be useful for the ones who have anxiety but at the same time especially when it is used after a long break, it can cause anxiety. Research has uncovered an overlooked consequence of using this substance: marijuana can actually cause anxiety. Yes, the feelings are contradictory! The exact mechanism is still mostly unknown, but what is understood is that the effects of THC on neurotransmitters play a role. It is thought that chronic or high-dose marijuana use may lead to an alteration in normal brain chemistry which then results in anxiety. So I guess, it’s important to know your yourself and check how cannabis reacts to your body.
Paranoia
It is not known exactly why marijuana affects users this way, but it’s believed to have something to do with the chemical compounds in cannabis that interact with the neurotransmitters in brain cells. Whatever the root cause may be, it’s important to remember that marijuana can have serious long-term implications on your mental health if you experience paranoia while using cannabis and to seek help if needed.
Psychosis
Psychosis itself is considered rare and research shows a fivefold increase in the chances of developing some form of psychosis in users that ingest high-potency marijuana on a daily basis. Those with a family history of psychosis, schizophrenia, or otherwise, are encouraged to avoid cannabis because THC may trigger chemical changes in the brain that can lead to mental health problems. Those looking to treat an illness or condition should take these findings into consideration and speak with their doctor before making any decisions.
2. Long-Term Effects of Marijuanas
– Marijuana Addiction or Marijuana Use Disorder
Marijuana addiction, also known as marijuana or cannabis use disorder, is a condition in which a person has difficulty reducing or stopping their use of marijuana despite experiencing negative consequences as a result of their use.
– Impaired Memory and Learning
A study proves beyond dispute that smokers of marijuana suffer from impaired memory and learning capabilities.
– Difficulty Concentrating
It has been found that smoking marijuana can cause difficulty concentrating. People who use marijuana frequently often tell stories about how they struggle to focus on tasks or miss out on vital parts of conversations. Concentration problems associated with smoking marijuana are sometimes accompanied by a decrease in motivation, leading to diminished productivity and an overall decreased quality of life.
– Increased Risk of Psychotic Disorders such as Schizophrenia
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse research has shown that smoking marijuana can increase the risk of developing certain psychotic disorders, such as schizophrenia. People who smoke marijuana are two to three times more likely to experience psychotic symptoms than people who don’t, and the younger a person is when they start smoking weed, the higher the risk is.
– Increased Risk of Infertility
Cannabis use has been linked to fertility issues, particularly in men. A study has found that those who smoke marijuana may be at an increased risk of infertility due to lower sperm count, slower mobility, and reduction in sperm morphology—all of which are necessary for successful conception. The findings indicate a connection between marijuana use and male reproductive health, so it’s important that potential parents weigh the risks before using cannabis during the conception process. Additionally, further research is needed to better understand the effects of frequent cannabis consumption on development and future fertility.
– Suicide Ideation
The use of cannabis has been linked to an increased risk of suicidal thoughts, as well as other destructive mental health outcomes such as depression and anxiety. We must take care to do further research into this phenomenon to delve deeper into its root causes, in order to help those at risk of succumbing to suicidal thoughts due to marijuana use get the help they need.
Physical Health Effects of Marijuana Use
In addition to the mental health effects, marijuana use can also lead to a number of physical health problems, including:
Cancer
There is some evidence to suggest that marijuana or its active ingredients may have potential therapeutic benefits for certain medical conditions, including cancer. Some studies have shown that marijuana or its derivatives can help to relieve pain, reduce nausea and vomiting, and stimulate appetite during cancer treatment. On the other side, marijuana smokers are eight times more likely to develop head and neck cancer than non-smokers, according to findings presented at the American Society of Clinical Oncologists annual meeting in 2009. Smokers also demonstrate an increased risk of developing lung and other respiratory cancers due to prolonged exposure to carcinogens generated by burning unprocessed plant material. Additionally, chronic marijuana users can suffer impaired cell growth that could manifest as a form of precancerous tissue turnover in advanced ages.
Heart Disease
The health risks of marijuana use have often been overshadowed by the conversation around its potential benefits, with few considering the consequences of long-term usage. But it’s important to remember that using marijuana can put your heart health at risk. Studies show that marijuana use can increase one’s risk of developing coronary artery disease and other cardiovascular conditions – including arrhythmia and hypertension – proving that what may seem harmless at the moment can have dire consequences down the line. It is crucial for both medical consumers and recreational users to stay aware of the dangers posed by cannabis use and to make sure to limit their intake appropriately.
Marijuana Affects the Immune System
Recent studies show that marijuana use can have an effect on the human immune system. Research indicates that users may experience a decrease in the number of cells present in the body’s natural defenses, leading to an increased vulnerability to certain diseases. Although further study is necessary before any definitive conclusions can be made, marijuana users should be cognizant of research indicating its potential impact on the immune system.
Marijuana Affects the Respiratory System
The inhalation of marijuana smoke can cause irritation to the throat and lungs and even coughing, wheezing, or breathing difficulties over time. Additionally, regular marijuana users have an increased risk of developing bronchitis symptoms, such as chronic coughing and more intense phlegm production. It’s important to understand the potential consequences that all forms of marijuana intake can bring to your respiratory system, and consider taking alternative measures whenever possible.
Relationship Problems
The use of marijuana can cause serious relationship problems if not addressed. While marijuana may be perceived as a casual, recreational drug, it can have damaging effects on relationships when used by one partner more than the other. This imbalance in usage can lead to feelings of distrust and resentment that left unchecked can damage the bond between partners.
Additionally, marijuana use has been linked to an increase in arguments and low communication among couples, which take their toll on any relationship. If a partner finds themselves using or relying on marijuana as a crutch for difficult conversations or problems within the relationship, it is important to address this immediately in order for the couple’s bond to remain healthy and intact.
Workplace Problems
Marijuana use can have a huge impact on an individual’s work performance, which in turn can lead to workplace problems. But if you are working as a freelancer and working yourself, then there is no need to worry about it, just keep in your mind that it will take more time for you to finish the tasks just in a more fun way.
Marijuana impairs cognitive functions such as memory and problem-solving, making it difficult for users to think clearly or take appropriate action at work. Furthermore, since marijuana is now legal in many states, it is becoming increasingly popular.
It is important that employers create policies regarding marijuana use that help protect their organization’s image and outlook for the long term by limiting any negative impacts of somebody’s personal decision on the organization as a whole.
Legal Problems
The legal status of marijuana varies depending on the country, state, or region where it’s being used. In some areas, marijuana is legal for recreational or medicinal purposes, while in others it is illegal. In countries or regions where marijuana is illegal, smoking or possessing marijuana can result in legal penalties, such as fines or imprisonment. Even in areas where marijuana is legal, there may be restrictions on where it can be used and how it can be purchased or sold.
Some of the potential legal problems that can arise from smoking marijuana include:
- Being arrested and charged with the crime of possessing, using, or selling marijuana
- Facing fines or other financial penalties for marijuana-related offenses
- Losing certain rights or privileges, such as the right to vote or the right to own a firearm, as a result of a marijuana-related conviction
- Difficulty finding employment or housing due to a criminal record for marijuana-related offenses
- Loss of custody or visitation rights for parents who use marijuana in the presence of their children
- Being deported or denied entry to certain countries due to a marijuana-related conviction
It’s important to be aware of the legal status of marijuana and to comply with the relevant laws and regulations in your area. If you have questions about the legal implications of using marijuana, it’s a good idea to consult with a lawyer or other legal professional who is familiar with the laws in your area.
What is The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA)’s Opinion About Using Cannabis Products
The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) is a federal research institute that conducts and supports research on the health effects of drug use and addiction. NIDA’s mission is to advance science-based knowledge and understanding of drug use and addiction to apply this knowledge to improve individual and public health.
NIDA has published a wealth of information about the effects of marijuana use, including its potential risks and benefits.
If you would like to learn more about NIDA’s research on marijuana, you can visit their website at https://www.drugabuse.gov/. There, you can find a wealth of information about the effects of marijuana use, as well as other drugs and substances.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the long-term effects of cannabis use can vary depending on a variety of factors, such as the frequency and amount of use, the method of consumption, and the individual’s overall health and genetics. It is important for individuals to carefully consider the potential risks and benefits of cannabis use and to consult with a healthcare provider before making any decisions about using cannabis.
