Harmful Effects of Cannabis Use and How it Impacts Other SUD and MH Disorders

Many see cannabis commonly known as marijuana as a harmless, even therapeutic, substance that helps them cope with challenges. The reality, however, is that cannabis comes with significant risks that can impact both short- and long-term health and disrupt the recovery process for those battling substance use or mental health disorders.

Short-Term Effects of Cannabis Use

The immediate effects of cannabis can vary from mild relaxation to serious impairment. While some may experience a temporary state of euphoria, others may suffer from:

• Increased heart rate
• Anxiety
• Paranoia
• Hallucinations, especially at higher doses
• Impaired concentration and memory
• Decreased coordination and reaction time

While these short-term harmful effects of cannabis use are concerning for all, they’re especially dangerous for those with existing mental health and substance use disorders. Cannabis can exacerbate symptoms and lead to risky behaviors and a continued, dangerous self-medicating cycle.

Long-Term Impacts

Regular, long-term cannabis use can have concerning effects, including:

• Cognitive decline
• Increased risk of dependency
• Respiratory issues if smoked
• Long-lasting psychosis
• Impaired emotional regulation
• Decreased motivation
• Obesity

Recovering from substance use or mental health disorders is challenging enough, let alone having to deal with these long-term cannabis use effects. Recovery becomes that much more difficult to achieve and maintain.

Effects of Cannabis Use on Mental Health Disorders

Increased Anxiety and Depression

Contrary to the common belief that cannabis alleviates stress and anxiety, in many cases, it can actually make symptoms far worse. In “Cannabis Use and Prospective Long-Term Association with Anxiety” it was concluded that “cannabis use was significantly associated with increased odds of developing any anxiety conditions.”

If you’re already battling anxiety, cannabis can make symptoms worse and interfere with the effectiveness of therapy and medication.

Higher THC Levels and Schizophrenia

When compared to previous decades, modern cannabis contains much higher levels of THC, and research has shown that those high levels could be associated with earlier onset and more severe symptoms of schizophrenia, particularly for men. One study concluded that “...one-fifth of cases of schizophrenia among males might be prevented by averting cannabis use disorder.”

Those predisposed to this mental health disorder are at a much higher risk when using cannabis regularly.

Manic Episodes and Mood Instability

For those battling mood disorders, such as bipolar, cannabis can trigger a manic episode or exacerbate mood instability. The unpredictable effects of cannabis can also interfere with treatment plans, making it more difficult to effectively manage symptoms.

The effects of cannabis use on mental health can be detrimental, severely derailing treatment plans that could have otherwise brought relief.

Cannabis and Other Substance Use Disorders

Gateway to More Dangerous Substances

Cannabis can be a gateway to more dangerous drugs, as evidenced by The Journal of Substance Use and Addiction Treatments study results:

“Cannabis users had 3-4 times higher rates of other substance use disorders than nonusers.”

Individuals who regularly use cannabis can be more likely to experiment with or become dependent on other substances, including alcohol, opioids, and stimulants. This can create a cycle of dependency that becomes increasingly difficult to break free from, making long-term recovery especially difficult.

Interference With Recovery Treatments

The harmful effects of cannabis use interfere with treatment plans while in treatment because cannabis can reduce the effectiveness of medications designed to aid overall mental health recovery, such as those used in opioid and/or substance abuse treatment programs, cannabis can make it difficult to fully engage in therapy or rehabilitation. Cannabis is a mood and mind altering chemical which inhibits one’s ability to achieve the maximum benefit from a rehabilitation program.

Struggling With Cannabis Use Disorder? We’ll Help You Break Free.

Here at Healthy U Behavioral Health, we understand the complexities of mental health and substance use disorders, as well as why many choose to self-medicate with cannabis. Through our personalized, compassionate care, you can get the support, guidance, and evidence-based treatments that help you lead a happy, healthy life free of substance use.

We’re in-network with most major insurance providers, which helps to put recovery within reach with maximum accessibility. Connect or call with us today to take the first step toward a Healthier U.