As we approach a time where cannabis is legalized in Canada, discussions relating to its impacts on physical, environmental, medical and mental health have arisen in various settings.
First and foremost, substance use related costs within the health sector in Canada, are approximately $38 billion dollars per annum. These costs include substance use related complications from alcohol, tobacco, illicit opioid use and cannabis. As the country enters the early birth of cannabis legalization, chances to expand dialogue and conversations within families and social circles may bring an opportunity to share education on the risks and responsibility that should be exercised when considering cannabis use.
For a substance to be considered problematic in someone’s life, several clinical considerations are taken such as:
- Continuing to use the substance despite negative consequences (i.e., a person may continue to use even though the substance may impact their work productivity, family life or personal interests)
- Inability to exercise control (i.e., struggling to stop or reduce use, despite repeated attempts)
- Withdrawal symptoms (i.e., the user may experience psychological or physical withdrawal symptoms and may feel sick if use of the substance is stopped for a certain number of hours or days)
- Preoccupation (i.e., planning to use and feeling anxious if there is a chance the person can’t get the substance)
- Behaviours that ‘mask’ use to others (i.e., hiding the use, underestimating, setting unsuccessful limits ‘I will only have this one’).
It is estimated that 10% of regular cannabis users in Canada develop dependency to cannabis. Cannabis dependency includes psychological (excessive preoccupation, anxiety) and mild physical symptoms (loss of appetite, sweating, upset stomach, disturbed sleep).
In my clinical experience, I have seen many young adults requesting psychotherapy and counselling for marijuana dependency. There seems to be a prevalent pattern of marijuana use with the intention to lower anxiety especially in anticipation of social situations and performance- based experiences (i.e., writing exams). While this substance may be perceived as lowering anxiety in the short-term, the long-term impacts are that it actually increases anxiety and leads into a vicious cycle which continues to increase anxiety without a successful long-term solution.
As is true with all substances that alter mood, caution is highly advisable. Having open dialogues within family members to explore the cons/pros and purpose of using cannabis and its potential consequences may help the younger adults of today’s society make more educated and informed choices as it relates to their health.
If you find that you are struggling with cannabis use, there are various free-of-charge cannabis-specific services in Ontario and the general Toronto area available that can help.
Written By: Agustina Jorquera
References:
Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction
http://www.ccsa.ca/Pages/default.aspx