Marijuana
(Public Health)
This page will help answer your questions about marijuana (hashish).
What is marijuana?
- Marijuana is also known as “hashish” or “drug”. It is a substance with psychological and mental effects. This term refers to parts or products of the cannabis plant that contain large amounts of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is the main chemical responsible for the psychological effects, such as the feeling of euphoria. Raising awareness about marijuana is important as it is considered one of the most widely used drugs, especially among young adults, and it has short- and long-term psychological and physical effects.
- What are the ways marijuana is used?
- Rolled cigarettes: by extracting oils and other materials, they can be vaporized and inhaled using devices similar to electronic cigarettes.
Mix it or add it to food.
- When doesmarijuana takeeffect?
The effects of marijuana appear within seconds to minutes when smoked or vaporized and can last up to 24 hours. When consumed by eating or drinking, the effects begin after 30 minutes to two hours and may last up to 24 hours.
What are thesigns ofmarijuana use?
- When marijuana is smoked, the narcotic substances quickly pass from the lungs to the bloodstream, and then to specific parts of the brain. These substances overstimulate these parts, leading to a series of effects and signs, and other organs may also be affected. These include:
- Changes in the senses, such as seeing brighter colors or smelling odors more intensely.
- Changes in the perception of time and place.
- Euphoria and mood changes.
- Difficulty thinking and problem-solving.
- Memory impairment.
- Confusion and lack of awareness.
- Drowsiness.
- Dizziness.
- Problems with movement and balance.
- Slow responses.
- Experiencing a panic attack.
- Dry mouth.
- Nausea.
- Increased heart rate (for up to three hours after smoking).
Increasedappetite.
- If marijuana is consumed in high doses, it can cause:
- Hallucinations (false perceptions of things, events, or senses).
- Delusions (a strong belief in something untrue).
Psychosis, which is more likely in those who regularly use highly potent cannabis.
What is theeffect of marijuanaon human health?
Marijuana directly affects the body and mind, causing changes in nervous system functions and leading to a range of psychological and physical effects that may be short- or long-term.
- First: Short-term effects
- -Psychological effects:
- Feeling of euphoria.
- Sense of comfort and well-being.
- Increased sensory perception (sight, taste, smell, hearing).
- Confusion.
- Drowsiness.
- Anxiety, fear, or panic attacks.
- Weak ability to concentrate, remember, and respond quickly.
- 2-Physical effects:
- Temporary memory loss.
- Difficulty thinking and solving problems.
- Increased heart rate, which poses a risk to heart patients and may lead to a heart attack.
- Low blood pressure, which may cause fainting.
- Poor motor coordination.
Episodes of hallucinations, delusions, and suspicion.
- Second: Long-term effects
- 1-Psychological effects:
- Increased risk of addiction.
- Permanent memory loss.
- Poor ability to think and make decisions.
- Reduced IQ.
- Mental disorders such as delusions and hallucinations.
- Cognitive decline in focus and attention.
- Risk of schizophrenia or other mental illnesses in those predisposed to such conditions.
- These effects worsen when:
- Use begins in adolescence before brain development is complete, as it may affect the brain’s ability to build functions such as concentration, memory, and learning.
- Frequent and continuous use for long periods (weeks, months, years).
- 2-Physical effects:
- Respiratory problems similar to tobacco smoking:
- Bronchitis.
- Lung infections.
- Chronic cough.
- Mucus buildup in the chest.
- Weakening of blood vessels due to exposure to smoke.
- Risk of heart and vascular diseases.
Stroke.
- Although marijuana may cause a temporary feeling of happiness and relaxation, its negative effects on the body andmind are serious. These effects include memory problems, poor concentration, psychological disorders, and long-term addiction. Smoking itmay also lead to health problems similar to tobacco smoking, such as lung infections and chronic cough.
- Long-term marijuana use during adolescence or early adulthood “before the brain is fully developed” often affects the brain’s ability to build functions such as concentration, memory, and learning.
- Lung damage and increased risk of bronchitis.
- Scarring of small blood vessels.
- Stroke.
- Heart and other vascular diseases.
- Risk of schizophrenia or other mental illnesses in those predisposed to such conditions.
- Gum disease (periodontitis).
Recurrent pain crises in people with sickle cell disease.
What are therisk factors formarijuana use?
There are many reasons why a person may start using marijuana. It is important to remember that these factors often interact and there is rarely only one cause. Here are some of the most common reasons:
- Social andenvironmental factors:.
- Peer pressure: the desire tofit in with friends orsocial groups who use marijuana.
- Family influence: growing up ina family where marijuana useis accepted or prevalent.
- Easy access: easy accessto marijuana can increasethe likelihood of use.
- Cultural norms: in some culturesor communities, marijuana use isnormalized or even encouraged.
Media portrayal: positive depictions of marijuana use in movies, TV shows, and music can affect perceptions and attitudes.
- Psychologicalfactors:
- Stress relief: using marijuana to copewith stress, anxiety, or difficult emotions..
- Curiosity: wanting to tryand experience theeffects of marijuana.
- Self-medication: using marijuana to relieve symptoms of mental health conditions such as depression or anxiety, even without a formal diagnosis.
Thrill-seeking: enjoying the risk aspect of using a substance that may be illegal or taboo.
Marijuana addiction(Cannabis UseDisorder):
Cannabis Use Disorder (marijuana addiction) is a mental health condition characterized by a problematic pattern of marijuana use that causes psychological distress or negatively affects a person’s life. This disorder is a type of substance use disorder, an addictive condition that leads to loss of control over using a specific substance such as drugs or alcohol, resulting in psychological, physical, and social harm.
What are the complications of marijuana addiction (Cannabis Use Disorder)?
- Cannabis Use Disorder can negatively affect mental, physical, and social health. The physical complications include:
- Psychosis.
- Anxiety disorder.
- Sleep disorder.
- Vomiting syndrome.
- Chronic bronchitis.
- Fertility problems.
- Acute Cannabis Use Disorder (marijuana addiction).
- Changes in brain development.
Reduced IQ.
Treatment methods for Cannabis Use Disorder:
- Treatment methods vary depending on theCBTseverity of addiction and include:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): helps identify marijuana use triggers, develop coping mechanisms, and change problematic thought patterns and behaviors.
- Support groups: access to supportive communities for people recovering from marijuana addiction.
- Medications: currently, there are no FDA-approved medications specifically for treating marijuana addiction. However, some medications may help manage withdrawal symptoms or co-occurring mental health conditions.
- Lifestyle changes:
- Stress management: develop healthy coping mechanisms such as exercise, mindfulness, or relaxation techniques.
- Healthy sleep habits: prioritizing good sleep can improve mood and reduce cravings.
- Social support: surrounding oneself with supportive friends and family who encourage recovery.
Healthy activities: engaging in hobbies and activities that promote well-being and provide a sense of purpose.
- What are the misconceptions about marijuana?
Marijuana (hashish)isnotaddictive:
- Truth: Marijuana can be addictive, especially with regular or excessive use. This is known as Cannabis Use Disorder.
Cannabis issafe becauseit isnatural:
Truth: Being natural does not mean it is risk-free. Marijuana can affect the brain, heart, and lungs and increase the risk of some health problems such as mental health disorders.
Frequently Asked Questions:
When shouldspecialists beconsulted?
If a person using marijuana is “addicted,” it is recommended to see a doctor to choose the appropriate treatment method that will help them quit, God willing.
What are the guidelines for marijuana addicts?
- The guidelines depend on the severity of the disorder and are tailored to each person’s needs, meaning they may need different types of treatment at different times. The guidelines often include:
- Continuous follow-up with treatment for it to be effective, as the disorder is a chronic condition with potential for recovery and relapse.
- Addicts often have co-occurring mental health conditions, so treating all disorders together rather than separately is generally more effective.
Providing access to counseling as well as supportive communities.
What is the differenceTHCbetween hashish and marijuana?
Hashish and marijuana are both products derived from the cannabis plant, but the main differenceTHCbetween them lies in the concentration of THC, the substance responsible for the psychological effects.
Marijuana contains a lower concentrationTHCof THC compared to hashish.
Hashish contains a higher concentration of THC, makingTHCit more potent in terms of effect.
