[vc_row][vc_column][vc_custom_heading text=”CANABIS ADDICTION” font_container=”tag:h1|text_align:left” use_theme_fonts=”yes”][vc_column_text]Often it is misunderstood if cannabis/marijuana is an addictive substance. Whilst it’s not as addictive as substances such as cocaine or heroin and many people recreationally use cannabis without becoming dependant on it, cannabis can still be addictive. Over time, overstimulation of the endocannabinoid system by marijuana use can cause changes in the brain that lead to addiction. You could say, according to stats, that Cannabis is about as addictive as alcohol – roughly 10% of people who use it will become addicted.
Cannabis can be seen by many who use it as a harmless recreational drug. However for 1 in 10 it’s a different story. Addiction to cannabis is serious and can have implications of physical and mental health, it can also impact work and relationships.
What are the signs to look for if you think you may have an addiction to cannabis? Tolerance is a strong indicator of dependency, if you feel the need to smoke increasing amounts to get the same effects. Anyone who has developed a dependency to a drug will suffer withdrawal symptoms if they stop taking the substance. With cannabis this can be insomnia or anxiety, even a loss of appetite. Time spent smoking cannabis is also indicative of addiction. Taking time away from doing activities of usual interest to smoke instead can be a sign of a problem. Similar to those with alcohol problems, anyone choosing to smoke cannabis to relax may have an addiction.
An addiction to cannabis should be taken seriously, it has influences on mind and mood. Although people often report smoking cannabis to relax, it in fact has the opposite effect. It can cause anxiety, panic, paranoia and suspicion. Smoking cannabis can cause relapses in people who suffer with mental health issues such as schizophrenia. Cannabis can affect the way the brain works. Regular, heavy use makes it difficult to learn and concentrate and research has linked cannabis use to poor exam results. This is a potentially serious risk if you’re young, when the brain is still developing. People who take a lot of cannabis can also find they lack motivation. Cannabis also shares the same harmful substances as found in tobacco, which puts users at increased risk of illnesses such as cancer and heart disease.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][/vc_column][/vc_row]
