The title of this post is funny, amusing, and bewildering all at the same time because this side of a decade ago the very thought would have been completely unacceptable to many of the people who now use Marijuana and its related products regularly to treat all manner of daily ailments, and even more serious ones.
CBD oil and its evolution continue to yield exciting results in the treatment of issues like anxiety, depression, headaches, and sleep disorders and Marijuana itself is being used increasingly by cancer patients worldwide, and they’re reporting amazing results and benefits. These extend to chronic pain management, regulating appetite, and in some cases, even fighting certain types of cancer.
The use of Marijuana can also extend to recreational use, (it seems funny to add this after the medical information), and attitudes are changing. So, if you’re the sort that enjoys a daily glass of wine to wind down, Marijuana use as a recreational habit can yield many benefits that go way past just winding down.
BUT (capitalization intended), just as using alcohol recreationally, you need to know what you’re doing and the potential risks that come with substance abuse as opposed to use.
WHAT ARE THE EFFECTS OF MARIJUANA USE?
Marijuana has a range of potential effects and side effects. The more you use, the longer you use it and the more THC the Marijuana you’re using contains, the more effects you’re going to feel. Short term use may cause issues with:
- Your ability to think and solve problems
- Coordination
- Your reaction times
- Judgment
- Memory, and
- Mood
Longer-term use, especially irresponsible use could create more significant challenges. These could be:
- Memory loss
- Trouble learning and thinking
- Changes in brain structure
- Trouble at work or in school
Marijuana indeed has many positives and we’re going to explore some of those shortly, but you have to be aware of the potential risks too and as with all things, get some advice from people in the know and have a chat with your doctor – knowledge is power, and just like alcohol use, responsible behavior can negate many of the potentially negative side-effects of Marijuana.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF RECREATIONAL MARIJUANA USE?
From the mid-90s onwards 28 states legalized Marijuana for medical use and some have extended that decriminalization to recreational use as well. However, during that time, the benefits of its use have been a little hazy. The general thought is that usage should be limited to medical purposes, but as the use of Marijuana continues to increase sharply amongst recreational users, the question has moved to exploring the benefits (if any) of recreational use.
While there are no direct benefits to recreational use and indeed use for this purpose must be well thought out and done responsibly, the benefits of Marijuana for medical use don’t cease as a result of recreational use. There is a fascinating article by Vox, here.
Remember that responsible use of any substance including alcohol starts with you. If you’re feeling like you need to get your life back on track or you think you or a loved one might need help with substance issues, then reach out to your doctor, church, or local chapter of AA or NA.
