Marijuana is the dry shredded mix of the flowers, stems and leaves of the cannabis sativa plant, and is usually smoked. It is the most commonly abused drug in the United States. Smoking Marijuana causes respiratory problems or deficiencies of the immune system.
Marijuana Abuse
Can Marijuana be abused? Yes it can be. Although many people use Marijuana for medicinal purposes, it has always been a very popular recreational drug. It is interesting to note that while the number of people who use Marijuana has not increased in the past decade, Marijuana related disorders in people have increased significantly. So how is Marijuana abuse defined?
Marijuana is abused when an individual consumes the drug in amounts that are harmful or through methods that are harmful. Marijuana is usually consumed via smoking or orally through foods that are prepared with the drug. An individual is abusing Marijuana when:
- It is smoked, causing side effects that are similar to smoking cigarettes.
- It is used for non medical purposes to create a euphoric effect.
- It is taken in harmful amounts.
Side Effects of Marijuana Abuse
Marijuana abuse can result in problems with memory, learning, mood and social behavior. It can interfere with family, school, work, and other activities. According to research, Marijuana’s adverse impact on learning and memory can last for days or weeks after the effects of the drug have worn off. Thus, an individual who smokes marijuana every day may be functioning at a reduced intellectual level.
Marijuana use can lead to undesirable side effects, which increase with higher doses. These side effects include:
- Decreased short-term memory
- Decreased appetite
- Dry mouth
- Impaired judgment
- Impaired perception and motor skills
- Increased risk of mental illness
The risk of addiction is very real with abuse of Marijuana. Beyond that, there are other serious side effects such as paranoia, panic and acute psychosis. These may be more common among individuals who are new users of Marijuana, or those who already suffer from psychiatric disorder. Cancer of the lungs is also linked to marijuana use because unfiltered marijuana smoke has more carcinogens than cigarettes.
Signs of Marijuana Abuse
Marijuana abuse has some noticeable signs and symptoms, such as:
- Craving food or sweets.
- Increased appetite.
- Forgetfulness.
- A burnt rope odor on the individual’s clothing or breath.
- Distorted sense of the passing of time.
- Possession of paraphernalia like pipes, bongs and rolling papers.
The Villa Treatment Center can help you with concerns about the side effects of Marijuana. Get in touch, and our experienced counselors will provide you with the necessary guidance. Call now. 1-818-639-7160