Marijuana & Anxiety: Facts to Consider.

Understanding Marijuana and Anxiety: Implications for Teens and Adults

New York State has recently become the 15th state to legalize marijuana for recreational use, effective immediately. This legislative change raises numerous questions and concerns among mental health and drug addiction counselors. While marijuana may be safe for some individuals to use recreationally, those prone to obsessive behaviors or other mental health disorders could be at a greater risk of addiction.

Marijuana as a Treatment for Anxiety

The rising popularity of CBD for various health issues, including migraine relief, pain management, and anxiety reduction, has led many to overlook the importance of using these substances under the guidance of a healthcare provider or mental health counselor.

Here are the facts: Marijuana can provide short-term relief of anxiety symptoms. However, once the effects of THC wear off, individuals often find themselves struggling with anxiety again. Avoiding “everyday anxiety” can hinder the development of coping skills, leading to intense mood swings, irritability, and difficulties in managing relationships. Numbing anxiety does not allow individuals to build resilience and develop the skills necessary to cope with anxiety effectively.

Mental Health Risks Associated with Marijuana Use

Numerous studies indicate an increased risk of developing psychosis with long-term marijuana use. Recent research suggests that daily consumption of high-potency marijuana could increase the likelihood of developing psychosis by nearly five times compared to individuals who have never used marijuana (1). The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warns that heavy or frequent marijuana users are more likely to experience suicidal ideation, social anxiety, and exacerbated symptoms of bipolar disorder. Continued marijuana use has also been linked to memory problems later in life.

Dependency and Teen Marijuana Use

There is a common misconception that marijuana is not an addictive drug. However, studies have shown that cannabis dependency is a very real concern. Withdrawal symptoms can include difficulty sleeping, anger, aggression, irritability, restlessness, loss of appetite, depression, and headaches. The risk of developing a dependency is notably higher among teens, who often believe that marijuana poses no risks.

Many parents mistakenly think that the marijuana available today is the same as what they encountered two decades ago. The National Institute of Drug Abuse (NIDA) has found that the potency of marijuana has increased significantly, with current THC levels being 3-4 times higher than those from 20 years ago, making it much more addictive. Additionally, adolescents are increasingly using marijuana in forms such as edibles, dabbing, waxes, and THC liquids for pens, which often contain higher THC concentrations than traditional marijuana cigarettes.

Effective Parenting Practices

Parenting adolescents presents significant challenges, particularly regarding their health and safety. If you're unsure how to initiate a conversation about marijuana use, consider these conversation starters:

• “Hey, I heard about the legalization of marijuana. What do you think about that?”

• “I sometimes worry that, due to our family history of addiction, you may have a higher risk of developing a drug or alcohol problem.”

Wondering how else you can help? Educating your teens about the effects and risks associated with marijuana use is crucial. If you notice signs of a substance use disorder, seeking help immediately is essential. Our mental health professionals are licensed to treat addiction and substance abuse-related issues.

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1. Di Forti M, Quattrone D, Freeman TP, et al. The contribution of cannabis use to variation in the incidence of psychotic disorder across Europe (EU-GEI): a multicentre case-control study. The Lancet 2019;6(5);427-436 doi. 10.1016/S2215-0366(19)30048-3