Marijuana has gained increasing attention for its potential effects on mental health. While some individuals report positive experiences, others have raised concerns about its impact on conditions like depression. For instance, research is finding that cannabis smokers are diagnosed with depression more often than nonsmokers. 

The relationship between marijuana and depression is complex, involving various biological, psychological and social factors. Let’s look at the intricacies of this relationship, the risks to be aware of and how a marijuana addiction treatment center in Lehigh Valley can help.

Understanding Marijuana’s Effects on the Body 

Marijuana contains several active compounds known as cannabinoids, with THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol) being the most well-known for its psychoactive effects. These cannabinoids interact with the brain’s endocannabinoid system, a complex network of receptors and neurotransmitters that play a crucial role in maintaining various physiological functions. 

Due to its interaction with the endocannabinoid system, marijuana can have the following effects: 

• Euphoria and mood alterations. THC, the primary psychoactive compound in marijuana, is responsible for the "high" or euphoria commonly associated with its use. It can impact mood, perception and cognitive functions, which may influence its connection to depression.
• Distorted sense of time. People who smoke pot tend to lose track of time. Due to its impact on the body’s internal clock, marijuana users feel that time passes more slowly. 
• Heightened senses. Marijuana activates parts of the brain that contain the highest number of receptors. This causes altered senses, such as seeing brighter colors or hearing louder sounds. 
• Lowered inhibitions. Smoking pot can also help ‘loosen’ people up, causing them to engage in risky behaviors like unprotected sex or reckless driving. 
• Hallucinations or delusions. Cannabis-induced psychosis can cause a person to experience hallucinations, delusions or distorted thinking. This is most common in individuals who use high doses of marijuana often. 

The Link Between Depression and Cannabis Use 

With medical and recreational use legal in many states, getting marijuana is easier than ever before. Researchers do not think that cannabis directly causes depression but rather that people use the drug to treat their depression symptoms. 

Some individuals report experiencing temporary relief from symptoms of depression after using marijuana. This is what keeps them using the drug. However, this effect is often short-lived and may be accompanied by negative side effects like paranoia. 

The long-term relationship between marijuana and depression is less clear. Some studies suggest that heavy or frequent marijuana use may be associated with an increased risk of depression, particularly among vulnerable individuals. 

Why Marijuana is Not a Safe Way to Treat Depression

Even though some people feel temporary relief from depression symptoms after smoking marijuana, it is not the right approach. First, the FDA has not approved medical marijuana as a treatment for depression. Second, marijuana can increase the risk for serious problems in people who have depression. These include: 

• Worsening depression. For some people, cannabis ends up worsening depression symptoms. The people most at risk are heavy users and those who started using the drug at a young age.
• Lack of motivation. People who smoke marijuana regularly often have a harder time engaging in activities that are good for them, such as sports or music. Not having these healthy activities can contribute to depression. 
• Less likely to seek help. Those who self-medicate with marijuana are less likely to seek professional help for their depression. Even if they do seek treatment, continuing to use marijuana can make treatment less effective. 
• Misuse of other substances. When a person uses pot to ease depression symptoms, there’s no telling what they may turn to next. Some people who use marijuana also abuse other substances like alcohol or painkillers. 
• Schizophrenia. Certain genes can trigger the onset of psychosis or schizophrenia. Using marijuana can trigger these disorders in individuals who have these genes. 
• Suicidal thoughts. Studies link marijuana use to a higher risk of suicidal thoughts and actions in people with depression. 

Assessing Your Risk for Greater Depression Symptoms 

Some people with depression see marijuana as being a safe treatment option. But as we explored above, there is no evidence that marijuana provides long-term relief from depression. To assess your individual risk for worsening mental health effects from cannabis, here are some factors to consider: 

Age and vulnerability 

Adolescents and young adults are believed to be more susceptible to the potential negative effects of marijuana on mental health. Early and heavy marijuana use during critical periods of brain development may impact mood regulation and increase the risk of mental health issues, including depression.

Self-medication and coping

Some individuals with depression may turn to marijuana as a form of self-medication to alleviate symptoms. However, this approach can be counterproductive, as it may lead to increased tolerance, dependence and potential exacerbation of underlying mental health conditions.

Dual diagnosis

Individuals who have both depression and substance use disorders face unique challenges. Treating both conditions simultaneously requires a comprehensive and tailored approach. Dual diagnosis responds well to medication, therapy, counseling and self-help groups. 

Genetic and environmental factors

Genetic predisposition and environmental factors play a role in an individual's vulnerability to depression and how they respond to marijuana use. For instance, a person's unique genetic makeup can influence their reaction to cannabinoids. Some people feel especially good when taking the drug, while others do not. 

Marijuana Addiction Treatment Center in Lehigh Valley 

The relationship between marijuana and depression is complex, and the impact of cannabis use on mental health can vary greatly among individuals. While some report temporary relief from depression-related symptoms, others may experience worsened outcomes, especially with heavy or frequent use. 

Since marijuana is still a drug that comes with many different side effects, we do not recommend it as a viable treatment option for depression. Recovery Cove treats dual diagnosis using a combination of medication, therapy and counseling. We find that people who struggle with depression often self-medicate with substances until they find other strategies that work for them.

To speak with someone from our admissions team, contact Recovery Cove in Easton PA at 484-549-COVE today.