Do you sometimes feel like you're bored with life, that you don't feel like doing anything, that everything seems dark? This is something that many people feel. Medically, we call this condition depression . So, when you're feeling down like this, some people think about using some marijuana to lighten your mood. They believe that it will bring relief for a while. But is it really a good solution? Is it good or bad for someone with depression to use marijuana? Let's talk about this clearly today.
Why do people with depression turn to cannabis use?
This is a really important question. Research has shown that people with depression are about twice as likely to use marijuana as people without depression.
Simply put, many people use cannabis to temporarily relieve the symptoms of their depression. That is, they use it as a form of self-medication . They are trying to get temporary relief from things like sadness, anxiety, loneliness, and insomnia.
Since cannabis has been legalized in some countries around the world, it has become very common. This is why some people think, "Oh... if it's not illegal, there's no big deal about using it." But we need to understand that just because something is legal doesn't mean it's 100% safe for our health.
Most importantly, no recognized health organization in the world, for example the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) in the United States, has approved cannabis as a treatment for depression.
Serious risks hidden behind temporary comfort
Many people view marijuana as a "safe" drug, but the truth is much different. There are some serious risks you could face from using marijuana, especially if you suffer from depression. Let's take a look at what they are in this table.
| The Risk | What Can Happen? |
|---|---|
| Worsening of depression | For some people, using marijuana can actually make depression worse, not better. This risk is especially high if you became addicted to it as a teenager and use it excessively. |
| Lack of motivation | When you use cannabis, you can lose interest in useful activities and hobbies. Imagine, you lose interest in playing cricket with friends, reading a book, or going to work properly, and you just feel like staying at home. This makes you even more lonely. |
| Deviating from medical advice | Because cannabis provides temporary relief, you may think, "I don't need a doctor's prescription." This can lead to you avoiding the right treatment for your condition. Also, even if you do get treatment, using cannabis can make it less likely that the treatment will be successful. |
| Other drugs and addictions | People who use marijuana are at greater risk of turning to cigarettes, alcohol, and other dangerous drugs. It's like moving from one addiction to another. |
| Serious mental illness | Some people may have a genetic predisposition to develop serious mental illnesses such as schizophrenia or psychosis . If you have that predisposition, cannabis use can trigger those conditions. |
| Suicidal thoughts | Research has shown that when young people, especially those suffering from depression, use cannabis, the risk of suicidal thoughts and attempts increases significantly. This is a very dangerous situation. |
Then doesn't cannabis provide some relief?
When you hear this, you might be wondering, "Then why do so many people use it?" In fact, some studies have shown that using cannabis can reduce symptoms of depression in the short term .
For example, in a recent study, 95% of cannabis users reported feeling less sad and anxious, and feeling lighter and happier after using it. Another study found that taking just two puffs of cannabis reduced depressive symptoms by about 50%.
But... here's the important thing. All this relief is temporary . That is, only for a few hours. The same research has proven that when you continue to use cannabis in this way, the initial relief disappears, and the depression gradually gets worse.
To put it simply, it's like putting painkillers on a wound. The pain may go away for a while, but the wound won't heal. If it's not treated properly, the wound will fester and become a bigger problem. It's the same with marijuana and depression.
So, what is the correct solution?
If you or someone you know is suffering from depression, you shouldn't resort to temporary, risky solutions like marijuana.
1. See a doctor: The first thing to do is to see your family doctor and talk about your situation. He or she may refer you to a psychiatrist or psychologist/counselor.
2. Get the right treatment: Depression is a treatable illness. There are many approved medications and therapies available. The results are permanent and safe.
3. Make lifestyle changes: Eating a balanced diet, exercising daily, getting enough sleep, and talking things out with a trusted friend or family member can help you fight depression.
Remember, depression is not a weakness. It is a medical condition that requires treatment. Never be afraid to ask for help.
Take-Home Message
- Depression is a medical condition that requires medical treatment. Cannabis is not a permanent solution.
- The immediate relief from cannabis use is very temporary. In the long run, it can worsen depression, loss of interest, and other mental problems.
- Starting cannabis use, especially at a young age , increases the risk of developing serious mental illnesses such as schizophrenia .
- If you or someone you know is suffering from depression, it is very important to seek advice from a qualified doctor or psychiatrist, rather than resorting to methods such as cannabis.
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