What Is Considered Heavy Marijuana Use? Marijuana is extracted from the cannabis plant and is the most commonly used illegal drug in the United States. On the other note, presently, this drug is legal in 50 states of the US. This mixture of dried and shredded cannabis flowers, seeds, stems, and leaves is used as a psychoactive drug for recreational purposes and, in some cases, to treat certain medical conditions. Tetrahydrocannabinol (also known as THC) is the main active ingredient in marijuana. This substance works at specific receptors in the brain and other body organs, causing the “high” experience. This high is what makes this drug so appealing.
Contrary to what many people believe, marijuana is an addictive drug that carries several significant risks to its users’ health. Using marijuana can cause memory problems, affect learning, and cause a variety of behavior problems. Over time, continued use of this substance causes more long-term harmful effects, so it is necessary to receive treatment as soon as possible. Thus, in this post, we at WeeDeeliver will discuss about the heavy usage of Marijuana.
Table of Contents
Causes and Risk Factors of Marijuana Abuse
Rather than a specific cause, several factors can put a person at greater risk of using or abusing marijuana in excess. The following are the main risk factors and causes:
Genetic Factors
Over the years, a significant amount of research has been carried out, which has determined a genetic predisposition to substance abuse problems. This is especially true for people who have a first degree relative with an addiction or substance abuse problem.
Physical Factors
People who use and abuse marijuana can cause damage cannabinoid receptors in the brain, which could lead to difficulties in maintaining coordination, a lack of accurate perception of time, and an inability to preserve memories. Additionally, if these receptors are damaged, it can affect a person’s ability to make the right decisions, resulting in continued marijuana abuse.
Environmental Factors
Several different environmental factors can cause a person to start using or abusing marijuana. For example, people who grew up in chaotic homes or those who were exposed to drug use at a younger age get abuse harmful substances.
Signs and Symptoms of Marijuana Abuse
Many different signs and symptoms are indicative of marijuana use. However, the exact symptoms exhibited by marijuana users vary from person to person and depend on the level of use and other individual characteristics. The following is a list of various signs and symptoms that may help you determine if someone you love is using marijuana:
- Anxiety
- Panic or Fear Reactions
- Depressed Mood
- Increased Irritability
- Agitation
- Increased Anxiety
- Decreased Interest in Things Previously Enjoyed
- Speak Out Loud and Laugh Out Loud
- Changes in the Peer Group
- Engaging in Risky Behavior/Criminal Activities
- Increase in Family Conflicts
- Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
Effects of Marijuana Abuse
The consequences that result from the use of marijuana largely depend on how long the person has been using this harmful substance. Studies done to evaluate long-term marijuana use have not yielded convincing results. However, it could be said that people who are dependent on marijuana are less motivated and less satisfied with their lives.
Can Cannabis Be Addictive?
Most marijuana users do not develop any dependency symptoms even over long periods of use and can do without consumption relatively easily. It, therefore, seems entirely incomprehensible for many why cannabis is considered to be addictive.
From a scientific point of view, the regular consumption of cannabis can make you psychologically dependent. Withdrawal from cannabis in the long-term, chronic users can sometimes result in listlessness, sleep problems, sweating, and malaise. These symptoms are identifiable but temporary and can be significantly reduced through exercise, a healthy diet, and occupational therapy.
Final Words on Heavy Marijuana Use
The use of harmful substances of any kind is usually related to the presence of a mental health condition. In many cases, drugs like marijuana are used in an attempt to help the person control the symptoms of mental health disorder.
