You Lied to Me: The Hidden Truth About Cannabis and its Effects on Your Brain and Mood
Dec 16, 2024
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Cannabis isn't the miracle cure it's often portrayed to be. It can link to psychosis and pose mental health risks, especially for young users. Personal journeys reveal the potential negative effects and societal views surrounding its use. The psychological factors motivating cannabis consumption are explored, alongside the risks of cognitive impairment. Practical strategies for stress management, healthy alternatives, and habit formation are provided to promote better mental well-being. Discover the full picture before making informed choices.
Cannabis use, particularly among vulnerable populations, poses significant risks for mental health issues like anxiety and psychosis.
Understanding the motivations behind cannabis use is essential for promoting healthier alternatives and reducing reliance on this substance.
Deep dives
The Hidden Risks of Cannabis Use
Cannabis use, particularly among genetically vulnerable individuals, significantly increases the risk of developing psychotic illnesses, with studies showing a 450% increase. This serious concern is often downplayed in society, leading many teenagers and young adults to believe that cannabis is innocuous and safe. In reality, the use of cannabis during late adolescence and early adulthood is linked to higher incidences of anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts. The message that cannabis is harmless creates a dangerous misconception, emphasizing the need for awareness about the real consequences of its use on mental health.
Understanding the Reasons for Substance Use
People often turn to cannabis for a variety of reasons, including pain relief, relaxation, and appetite stimulation. Psychological factors also play a role, as many use it to alleviate stress and anxiety or to fit into social norms. While there are legitimate medical uses for cannabis, such as managing nausea or pain in terminal illnesses, its recreational use can spiral into reliance, particularly when it becomes a habit for coping with boredom or social discomfort. Understanding these motivations is crucial for addressing substance abuse and providing healthier alternatives.
Alternatives to Cannabis Use
To help people moving away from cannabis, it's important to identify their motivations and replace that behavior with healthier options. Strategies include knowing one's desires in life, using supplements to curb cravings, and adopting alternative calming practices such as herbal teas, meditation, and engaging activities. For instance, techniques like diaphragmatic breathing and even playing Tetris have been shown to reduce cravings and lower anxiety. By creating a supportive environment with effective alternatives, individuals can significantly improve their mental health and well-being.
Cannabis is often hailed as a natural remedy for stress, anxiety, depression, sleep issues, and chronic pain. But is it the miracle cure it’s made out to be? In this eye-opening episode, Dr. Amen and Tana Amen reveal the darker side of marijuana no one’s talking about. Discover what SPECT scans show about its effects on brain health, mental well-being, and mood regulation—and learn why it’s important to know the full story before you decide if it’s right for you.
00:00 Intro
00:48 Cannabis
02:03 Why Do People Use?
10:41 Sponsor
12:00 The Trouble with Marijuana
18:48 The Psychological Consequences
22:53 The Risk Factors Associated with Cannabis
24:42 Taking Action
25:16 Dr. Amen’s 12 Steps
28:11 Your Why
29:31 Supplements
31:20 Habit Replacement
36:30 Wrap Up
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