Is Marijuana a Gateway Drug?
Marijuana, also known as cannabis, is one of the most common and one of the most widely used drugs in the world. It can be smoked or ingested to induce a relaxing high. Though seen as a “natural” or “organic” drug, marijuana can still be very harmful and may lead to risky behaviors, including the use of other dangerous substances.
Marijuana users struggling with mental illnesses or other issues may rely on the drug for calmness, temporarily escaping from their problems, which only leaves them to resurface later. However, once the brain has developed a tolerance to the drug, someone using the drug will have to use stronger versions or higher doses of marijuana to achieve the same high. This leads to a dependence that could result in addiction or overdose.
Though cannabis may provide temporary relief and calm, continued use can result in a number of side effects and may worsen symptoms of mental illness. Some of the most common side effects from frequent marijuana use include:
- Mood changes
- Impaired cognitive abilities
- Cardiac complications
- Fertility issues
- Hallucinations
- Anxiety
- Paranoia
- Disorganized thoughts
- Suicidal thoughts
Seeking addiction treatment can feel overwhelming. We know the struggle, which is why we're uniquely qualified to help.
Your call is confidential, and there's no pressure to commit to treatment until you're ready. As a voluntary facility, we're here to help you heal -- on your terms. Our sole focus is getting you back to the healthy, sober life you deserve, and we are ready and waiting to answer your questions or concerns 24/7.
Speak to an Intake Coordinator now.352.771.2700Marijuana contains THC — scientifically known as tetrahydrocannabinol — a chemical that produces the drug’s euphoric effects. When users inhale or consume this chemical, the THC travels straight to brain and influences how brain receptors communicate with the body and signal motor functions. Further exposure to THC also triggers cross-sensitization, the brain’s enhanced response to other drugs. In essence, using marijuana heightens the feelings, effects, and responses to other substances, which can lend support to the idea of marijuana being a gateway to using other harmful substances.
However, research shows some inconsistencies: though early age exposure to marijuana may increase the likelihood of drug abuse, many marijuana users do not go on to use or abuse harder drugs. Cross-sensitization also applies to alcohol and nicotine, not marijuana alone. This finding indicates there may be a correlation between marijuana use and substance abuse, but there is no definite causation.
Seeking addiction treatment can feel overwhelming. We know the struggle, which is why we're uniquely qualified to help.
Your call is confidential, and there's no pressure to commit to treatment until you're ready. As a voluntary facility, we're here to help you heal -- on your terms. Our sole focus is getting you back to the healthy, sober life you deserve, and we are ready and waiting to answer your questions or concerns 24/7.
Speak to an Intake Coordinator now.352.771.2700