In recent years, changes to the access and use of cannabis, have caused much confusion as to whether it is safe and what the harmful effects of using it are. Let’s look at what is known about cannabis more closely. 
Thirty-three states have approved the use of medical marijuana here in the United States (ProCon.org), as of May 2019. Although sufficient number of clinical trials have not yet been done, there have been some significant positive results in using cannabis oil as treatment for those with serious illnesses. The strains of cannabis used for these oils have a higher concentration of cannabinols, and low if any tetrahydrocannabinol or THC. These oils have no pyscho-hallucinogenic affects. Theses oils derived from various plant strains are very different from smoking the buds or putting them into foods. A prescription from a doctor is required to obtain medical grade marijuana.
Along with states approving the use of cannabis for treatment or alleviation of symptoms of medical conditions, 11 states and Washington D.C. have approved use of the substance for recreational use since 2012. The states that currently have legal recreational usage laws include Colorado, Washington State, Oregon, Alaska, California, Maine, Massachusetts, Nevada, and Vermont. Also, Washington D.C. (District of Columbia) (ProCon.org). The possession amounts and number of plants allowed vary by state. For the most part, 1 oz. of usable marijuana is permissible. The long-term effects of legalizing the drug for recreational use are as yet unknown. With an increased access for adults, there is a close watch on the usage in children, both teenagers and younger.
By far the most common way in which people consume cannabis is by smoking it in a rolled cigarette or “joint”, or out of a pipe. The concentration of THC in many of the strands currently in use are far greater than that of 1 and 2 generations ago. Often times, the source of the drug is unknown. The chance of contamination with other substances is high and can cause very negative effects. Even if you are in a place where recreational use is legal, one should be very careful in making the decision to use. Examining your purpose and intentions of use, as well as how your actions can affect others should always be considered.
The chemical structure of THC is similar to one produced in our brains called anandamide. With this similarity, it allows the body to recognize THC and it alters brain communication. Anandamide will function as a neurotransmitter, and the THC will attach to cannabinoid receptors on neurons. Once activated, various brain functions are disrupted including mental and physical functions (www.drugabuse.gov). These types of neurotransmitters are known as the endocannabinoid system and play a critical role in the normal functioning of the nervous system. Cannabis affects brain areas that have an influence on pleasure, memory, thinking, concentration, movement, and coordination.
THC alters the hippocampus and the orbitofrontal cortex areas in the brain. This influences the formation of new memories, a person’s ability to shift their focus, and disrupts the ability to accomplish complicated tasks. Other areas of the brain affected are the cerebellum and the basal ganglia (www.drugabuse.gov). These areas regulate balance and reaction time. Any activities that involve balance, coordination, and reaction time could be affected, like driving or sports. Here is a short video on how the brain responds to marijuana.
Watch Video Now.
Whatever experiences you have had with marijuana, or what you have heard from other people’s experiences, there is no doubt that there are significant changes to brain function happening when it is either inhaled through smoking or ingested through food. The dangers of smoking it, putting stress on the lungs and respiratory system, are also very real. As the video stated, the brain becomes over stimulated, and its ability to produce proper amounts of neurotransmitters like dopamine and others is affected.
Cause for Concern
Even with the recent changes to state laws, it is still a class 1 controlled substance on the Federal level. In these modules, we have learned and reinforced information about alcohol, opiates, and now cannabis. In future modules, we will be looking at the healthy use of electronics, the truth about sexually transmitted diseases, and the truth about smoking and vaping. Knowledge is power. The more informed you are about these substances, the better. There is much misinformation out there. Many times, our friends and peers don’t have all the facts or have biased information. The nation’s drug trade and networks, which include marijuana, are a continued hotbed for criminal activity that destroys the lives of millions of people. The intentions of the large majority of dealers is selfish gain even at the expense of others. The value of human life and the well-being of people and communities often does not factor into their decision to manufacture, produce, and distribute these drugs.
Along with alcohol, marijuana has been called a “gateway drug.” A gateway drug is one that is an introduction to substance use/abuse, and then leads to the use of either other more dangerous substances, or the increased use of that particular substance. Using marijuana does not necessarily lead to use of other substances like alcohol, amphetamines, nicotine, or heroine, but often it can. More often, alcohol is the gateway drug. In addition to the negative effects of the chemical substance itself, the reasons and intentions for use play a major factor.
Is a person using drugs including alcohol to avoid responsibility or please another person?
Is the purpose to numb the pain from some emotionally painful situation or relationship?
Are you consciously going against what you believe in when engaging in alcohol or another drug use?
These questions and others serve to shed light onto the activities we choose to fill our lives with. Examining your intentions, beliefs, goals and decisions will only serve to help you make better and better decisions for you and/or your family. Click through to these links to learn more about marijuana.
Question for Reflection: Do changes in the state laws about marijuana effect your decision to stay sober? In what ways?
Helpful Links
https://www.rehabs.com/assessments/marijuana-addiction-quiz/ (marijuana addiction quiz)
https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/drugfacts/marijuana (drug facts)
https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/drugfacts/marijuana-medicine