Marijuana Can Lead to Mental Illness
Posted by
Nirmala N.
You probably know quite a few people who smoke pot to relax or de-stress, but according to British researchers, marijuana can actually increase your risk of developing mental illness.
Currently, marijuana is the most commonly used illegal substance in the world. In the U.S. alone, about 20 percent of youth report using it at least once a week. A study group at Cardiff University examined and analyzed 35 studies linking marijuana to mental health disorders. They discovered that marijuana users were 41 percent more likely to develop a psychosis compared with non-marijuana users. The risk also increased over the time the drug was used, and as the amount of marijuana increased.
The researchers suggest that people who use marijuana tend to be at a higher risk for mental problems even without the drug, which they may turn to as a way of alleviating depression or anxiety. However, studies still suggest a strong causal relationship between marijuana use and psychosis. Researchers believe that if cannabis addiction is treated, it can actually reduce the risk of psychotic illness.
Marijuana Can Lead to Mental Illness
Posted by Nirmala N.
You probably know quite a few people who smoke pot to relax or de-stress, but according to British researchers, marijuana can actually increase your risk of developing mental illness.
Currently, marijuana is the most commonly used illegal substance in the world. In the U.S. alone, about 20 percent of youth report using it at least once a week. A study group at Cardiff University examined and analyzed 35 studies linking marijuana to mental health disorders. They discovered that marijuana users were 41 percent more likely to develop a psychosis compared with non-marijuana users. The risk also increased over the time the drug was used, and as the amount of marijuana increased.
The researchers suggest that people who use marijuana tend to be at a higher risk for mental problems even without the drug, which they may turn to as a way of alleviating depression or anxiety. However, studies still suggest a strong causal relationship between marijuana use and psychosis. Researchers believe that if cannabis addiction is treated, it can actually reduce the risk of psychotic illness.