Cannabis is the most commonly used illegal drug in the world, and its use is growing in many countries. Some people use cannabis for its psychoactive effects, while others use it for medical purposes. Cannabis can be smoked, eaten, or vaporized.
While cannabis use is generally considered safe, there are some risks associated with it. These include paranoia, anxiety, and memory problems. People who use cannabis regularly may also have difficulty concentrating and making decisions.
Cannabis is the most commonly used illegal drug in the United States, and its use is associated with several serious risks. According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), about 37.6 million Americans aged 12 or older used Marijuana in 2018. This represents about 14.4% of the US population. But how do you know when use becomes abuse? The use disorder, according to researchers, can morph into an addiction when the person can’t stop using the drug even when it interferes with their daily activities.
Does Cannabis Lead to the Use of Other Drugs?
Many factors can contribute to someone using other drugs, including peer pressure, family history, and mental health issues. Some people may be predisposed to substance abuse due to these factors, and cannabis use may be a symptom of this underlying issue. However, it is important to remember that not everyone who uses cannabis will go on to use other drugs. Cannabis use is often experimental, commonly lasting for only a short period in early adulthood.
Why Some People Try Other Drugs
There are many reasons why people might try other drugs, even if they don’t have a problem with substance abuse. For some, it’s simply curiosity; they want to know what the experience is like. Others may be looking for a way to escape from their problems or cope with pain.
Some people turn to other drugs because they are struggling with addiction. These substances can provide a temporary escape from the reality of their lives, but they eventually lead to more problems. The use of other drugs can also lead to legal trouble, financial problems, and relationship issues.
What the Research Says
A study published in Drug and Alcohol Dependence found that people who used cannabis were more likely to use other drugs, including alcohol, tobacco, and illicit drugs, than those who did not use cannabis. The study also found that the risk of using other drugs was highest among those who started using marijuana at a young age. People who start using cannabis before age 18 are four to seven times more likely than adults to develop a substance use disorder.
The findings of this study suggest that cannabis may be a gateway drug, meaning that it can lead to the use of other drugs. However, it is important to note that not all people who use cannabis will go on to use other drugs. Cannabis use is complex, and many factors contribute to someone’s risk of using other drugs. People who use marijuana are also more likely to drive while under the influence of alcohol or other drugs. Driving while impaired by any substance increases the risk of being in a car accident.
A study of twins found that the twin who used cannabis was more likely to use other illicit drugs than the twin who didn’t use cannabis. Researchers aren’t sure if there is a cause-and-effect relationship between early cannabis use and later drug abuse, or if it’s just that people who are prone to abusing drugs are more likely to start with cannabis.
Cannabis Use and Mental Health
Cannabis use can also worsen mental health problems. Some studies suggest that people who use cannabis are more likely than non-users to develop anxiety, depression, and schizophrenia. Other research shows that people who have these disorders are more likely than others to use cannabis. It’s not clear if marijuana use causes mental health problems, or if people with mental health problems are more likely to use cannabis.
Bottom Line
With the ongoing legalization of cannabis in the United States and around the world, it can be hard to say how this will impact marijuana use and abuse. Choosing the appropriate responses that are likely to be effective in dealing with a particular drug-related problem requires a clear understanding of the primary objectives for the intervention or combination of interventions. The outlook for marijuana addiction depends on how long a person has been using the drug and whether they are addicted to other substances. Various treatments can be very effective and long-lasting, though relapse is a common issue. If you or someone you know is struggling with drug abuse, please seek professional help. There are many resources available to those who need assistance. Cannabis abuse can have dire consequences if left untreated.