This is an automatically translated article.
In some countries, smoking cannabis in depressed patients is a trend used by many people to treat this disease. So can cannabis really help treat this disease? The following article will introduce the link between marijuana and depression.
1. The link between depression and marijuana
With smoking marijuana in some countries now widespread, they are more popular than ever. This has led many to think that cannabis could be used as a safer treatment.
There are some scientific studies that suggest that using cannabis in people with depression will not cause mood disorders but also improve symptoms. This is a common reason that patients choose to use cannabis instead of medication. Some research shows that marijuana can help you feel better if you're depressed, especially in the short term. But the FDA has not approved the substance as a drug for depression. So, if you or a loved one suffers from depression, here's what to know about the potential risks and benefits of marijuana.
2. Consequences of using marijuana
A lot of people with depression consider marijuana to be a safe drug. But studies show that when you're depressed, marijuana can increase your risk of some serious problems. These include effects such as:
Worse: For some patients, marijuana aggravates depressive symptoms. Your risk is higher if you started using the drug as a teenager, were a heavy user, or used it recreationally instead of medical marijuana. Lack of motivation: Using marijuana can make you feel low on energy when it comes to activities in your life. One study found that about 20% of people who used cannabis for depression said it reduced their motivation. Less Access to Medical Care: Recreational cannabis users are less likely to seek professional care from psychological and medical services for their depression. me. If long-term use leads to addiction, seeing a mental health professional will have little chance of their treatment helping you to get over your depression. Tobacco use, alcohol and drug abuse: People who use marijuana are more likely to smoke cigarettes and abuse alcohol and other drugs. Schizophrenia: Certain genes may increase the risk of schizophrenia or psychosis if the user has these genes themselves. Suicidal thoughts: Studies link marijuana use with a higher risk of suicidal thoughts and actions in depressed adolescents and recreational users.
3. Can cannabis relieve symptoms of depression?
There is some evidence that cannabis can reduce symptoms of depression in the short term. Some users say it helps them feel more relaxed, happy and at peace.
A 2020 study published in the Journal of Biology and Medicine found that about 95% of people said cannabis provided quick relief from short-term depressive symptoms.
A study published in 2018 in the Journal of Affective Disorders reported similar quick-acting benefits. Results showed that people who used only cannabis said the drug improved their depressive symptoms by about 50%. But continued use seems to worsen their symptoms.
Currently, there is no solid evidence that cannabis can provide long-term relief from depression. Many studies show that the drug can have harmful effects when you have a mood disorder, especially if you start using it in your teens.
Please dial HOTLINE for more information or register for an appointment HERE. Download MyVinmec app to make appointments faster and to manage your bookings easily.
Reference source: webmd
