Like alcohol, cannabis is an addictive substance that creates a euphoric high and can interfere with brain chemistry. Another similarity is that they are both legal. At least cannabis is legal in more states every year, though not yet all. Just because a substance is legal does not make it completely safe. Cars are legal but dangerous. Prescription opioids can be used legally—but can cause problems nonetheless. Anything that can pose a risk to you or others requires education and understanding to avoid the potential dangers. If you are a habitual user of cannabis, you will want to be aware of the effects of this psychoactive drug. If you are experiencing some of the adverse side effects of marijuana, consider substance abuse treatment in Houston.
Marijuana and memory impairment, as well as other consequences related to brain function, are concerns to be taken seriously. If you want to know more about the effects of marijuana on the brain and overall health, contact The Right Step Houston at 1.844.768.0169.
Understanding Marijuana
The human brain has tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) receptors that react to naturally occurring chemicals like THC. These substances are normal and healthy and play a role in brain function and development.
Common Side Effects of Marijuana Use
Certain parts of the brain are especially receptive to THC and THC-like chemicals. Cannabis stimulates those areas of the brain intensively, creating the feeling of being high. Some of the effects of marijuana include:
- Sensory alterations
- Mood shifts
- Slowed movement and reflexes
- Altered sense of the passage of time
- Brain fog, slowed thinking, impaired problem-solving
With very high doses, you can also experience hallucinations, delusions, and paranoia.
Long-Term Effects of Marijuana Abuse
Over the long term, especially when cannabis use begins before the age of 25 when the brain is finished developing, there can be additional effects such as:
- Learning impairment
- Loss of IQ points
- Loss of verbal acuity
- Development of psychiatric conditions like anxiety, depression, or schizophrenia
Also, memory impairment is a notable effect of marijuana use.
Recognizing the Link Between Marijuana and Memory
Not too long ago, the THC levels in cannabis were less than 5%. Now, many strains contain 15% or more THC. The higher potency of available cannabis combined with the absence of longitudinal marijuana studies means that researchers and physicians are a bit in the dark about the potential long-term effects of regular cannabis use. However, changes to some brain structures have been observed. In addition, there is evidence to show that memory-related effects are widespread among those who use marijuana heavily.
THC interacts heavily within brain regions such as the amygdala, cerebral cortex, and hippocampus—essential to memory formation. THC can:
- Lead to the loss of existing memories
- Affect the ability to lay down new memories (and thus long-term memory formation)
- Interfere with working memory, thinking, and executive function
- Disturb motor functions that are connected to thinking, for example, driving a car or playing an instrument
It is unknown how regular marijuana abuse will affect memory in old age, as so few long-term studies have been done. Regardless, the connection between marijuana and memory impairment is well-established. Just as regulations around the drinking age are in place for reasons guided by science, the same is true for cannabis. The human brain is not finished developing until the mid-twenties, but unfortunately, teenagers often begin experimenting with marijuana long before that.
Contact The Right Step Houston Today for Marijuana Abuse Treatment
Finding a suitable substance abuse treatment facility is the most critical first step. If you are concerned about your use of marijuana or that of someone you care about, reach out to The Right Step Houston to learn more about marijuana abuse treatment. Contact our team online or call 1.844.768.0169 to learn more.