There is a possible connection between marijuana and depression. The psychoactive stimulant and often sedative qualities of marijuana are responsible for its appeal as a recreational drug for many of those with clinical depression. But, for most people, using marijuana on a regular basis is no longer considered very safe, even though the plant remains an illegal, Schedule II substances. If you or someone you know use marijuana and suffer from depression, the advice contained in this article may help to put your mind at ease.
The first thing to try if you or someone you love has an interest in trying marijuana addiction treatment is to visit a local addiction treatment facility that is approved by the State. There are many rehab centers available for anyone who has questions about whether they should seek treatment. Some facilities will admit patients without requiring a court order. Others will require proof of medical necessity before admitting patients. haze xxl auto Some facilities, such as St. John’s Wort, have been accredited by the State. These include several treatment programs located throughout the State.
Another thing that may lead to depression because of cannabis and depression is the side effects that are common when using the drug. Because of these side effects, some patients turn to using other substances to help them cope with the intense feelings of anxiety, restlessness and insomnia that can lead to depression when cannabis is used on a regular basis. This is especially true for those who feel that traditional medications are not appropriate. However, it is also true for those who are already taking prescribed medication for another condition and believe that cannabis can be substituted without causing further harm to their medical condition. Withdrawal symptoms can be mild and dangerous if not treated correctly.
Many in the medical community believe that there are definite biological reasons why marijuana use can lead to depression causes depression. Although there has been little research performed on the subject, most medical professionals agree that there are at least two major biological systems within the human brain that are affected by cannabis use. One of those systems is the reward pathway, which is associated with the sense of pleasure that can be derived from using marijuana. The second system is the mesolimbic pathway, which is linked to the long term feelings of euphoric effects that come with marijuana use.
In recent years, there has been a trend towards the self-medicating cannabis and other mind-altering drugs. There is a vast array of methods ranging from using marijuana and cocaine to cold or recreational drugs like ecstasy and marijuana. Individuals who are more inclined to self-medicate with drugs may prefer the anonymity of buying cheap, easily available pharmaceuticals from convenience stores and pharmacies. For others who may not feel comfortable purchasing pharmaceuticals over the counter, they may try different ways to self-medicate, such as mixing pharmaceuticals themselves. This type of self-medication can also be done over the counter, but the individual may not have as strong of an experience if they are suffering from depression as they would if they were ingesting the natural compounds found in cannabis, which contain a variety of different chemicals and plant extracts.
With so much controversy surrounding the link between cannabis use and depression, it is easy to see why it is difficult to discuss this subject in a medical setting. However, the results of recent studies involving lab rats and humans show that there is a definite correlation between the two subjects. When administered before going to a national academy of sciences seminar, test subjects became less depressed following their experience with cannabis. Additionally, the rats were exposed to very low levels of the chemical CBD, which seems to be the key chemical in making cannabis work so well as a mood elevator for the user.