Cannabis
Cannabis is the name for the plant that marijuana and hashish come from. These drugs are often simply called ‘cannabis’. The psychoactive ingredient in all cannabis-derived drugs is tetrahydrocannabinol(THC). Cannabis is a commonly used drug around the world. Its impact varies from individual to individual. Some cannabis users are functional and suffer few negative consequences as a result of their use. Some users find themselves psychologically addicted to cannabis. Other users often move onto ‘hard’ drugs after experimentation with cannabis.
The legal status of cannabis is a controversial issue in the United States. It has significant medical value due to its ability to suppress nausea and vomiting in cancer patients and others who suffer from chronic illness. Cannabis has been legalized for medical use in some states for these reasons. Opponents to the legalization of cannabis argue that it is easily diverted into non-medical use and that it encourages substance abuse.
Drug Facts - Marijuana
Marijuana, is a product of the cannabis plant. It consists of dried mature flowers and particular leaves of the cannabis plant. Marijuana is typically consumed by way of smoking a cigarette, which is often referred to as a “joint,” or in a pipe. However it’s not limited to inhalation, it can also be mixed into certain foods such as baked goods or it can be used as an ingredient in tea. Additionally, many people tend to choose cannabis when first experimenting with drugs and, therefore, it is often referred to as a “gateway drug”.
According to data gathered by the National Survey on Drug Use and Health conducted in 2006, an estimated 97.8 million Americans from the ages of 12 and older reported to have tried marijuana at least once in their life, There are health risks that result from the use of cannabis. The following are some of the short-terms effects:
- Memory and learning problems
- Difficulty with thinking and problem solving skills
- Altered perception of reality
- Loss of coordination
- Rapid heart rate
- Feelings of anxiety
As for cannabis usage on a long-term basis, chronic drug abusers can often develop psychological dependence or require increased dosages to achieve the same effects. Users who have become psychologically dependent on cannabis may experience insomnia, irritability and anxiety in the absence of the drug.
Drug Abuse – Solutions & Treatment
Whether referred to as weed, pot, dope, or hashish, cannabis is primarily used for the purpose of getting high. The truth is that the gravest effect of substance abuse is death, which is why treatment and prevention solutions are so important for addicts.
The first step to overcoming any type of addiction, including drugs is admitting you have a problem and realizing how damaging it can be, not only to yourself, but to everyone around you. Fortunately, there are many drug rehabilitation centers all over the world that can help substance abusers with their drug addiction problem. Hypnosis may also be another treatment option that is worth considering for kicking a drug abuse habit. Additionally, support from family and friends can also be really helpful and motivating during this process. So if you’re someone who is consumed by a drug abuse problem, it’s time to take some action and gain back control of your life.