Behavior Health and Wellness Blog
Today, marijuana is the most commonly used drug worldwide, with around 188 million users, or about 2.5% of people aged 15-64. In the U.S., marijuana use among people aged 12 and older jumped from 11% (25.8 million) in 2002 to 17.5% (48.2 million) in 2019. Every year, 2-3 million new users start, and around 1.1% become clinically dependent. Among high schoolers, annual marijuana use rose to 23.9% in 2017, with
Cannabis use can lead to disorientation, anxiety, and feelings of paranoia. It is linked to an increased risk of developing psychosis, including hallucinations and paranoia, as well as long-lasting mental disorders like schizophrenia. The risk of schizophrenia is especially higher for those who start using cannabis at a younger age or use it frequently. Additionally, cannabis use has been associated with depression, social anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts or attempts.
The dangers of secondhand tobacco smoke on the heart and lungs are well-documented, leading to concerns about whether secondhand cannabis smoke poses similar health risks. Cannabis smoke shares many of the same harmful and cancer-causing chemicals found in tobacco, with some present in even higher concentrations. Additionally, cannabis smoke contains THC, the psychoactive compound responsible for the “high,” which can be passed on to children and infants through secondhand exposure.
Cannabis, derived from the dried leaves, flowers, stems, and seeds of the cannabis plant, contains compounds like tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), known for its mind-altering effects. THC can impact mood, perception, and mental clarity, but it can also pose risks to brain health and overall well-being. Over the years, the potency of cannabis products has increased, as has the number of ways to consume them, raising concerns about their potential harm. The