What is marijuana?
Marijuana is a botanically-derived drug composed of the dried leaves, stems, seeds and flowers of the cannabis Sativa or cannabis indica plant. Marijuana is smoked in hand-rolled cigarettes (joints), bongs pr blunts. Some is brewed in tea or mixed into edibles such as cookies or brownies.
Short term effects of marijuana
- impaired memory
- altered sense of time and space
- euphoria and mood changes
- disorientation and confusion
- problems with thinking and problem solving
- dizziness
- issues with coordination
- slowed reaction time
- hallucinations
- delusions
- increase in appetite
- nausea
- dry mouth
- psychosis
Long term effects of marijuana
- impaired sperm development which can affect fertility
- periodontal disease
- more frequent pain crises in people
- Mental disorder: Studies show that there is a a link between marijuana use and mental conditions such as depression, anxiety and psychosis.
- Marijuana addiction: Marijuana is addictive. People who start using the drug before the age of 18 become addicted
- An increased risk of testicular cancer
- respiratory difficulties
Marijuana withdrawal
The frequent use of marijuana can lead some individuals to develop dependence. When an individual stops the use of marijuana, withdrawal symptoms emerge. Symptoms can last up to two weeks after quitting. The withdrawal symptoms may include:
- cravings for marijuana
- difficulty sleeping
- restleness
- irritability
- changes in mood
- loss of appetite