Studies show a link between cannabis and psychosis, particularly schizophrenia. Some experts believe it’s a direct link, while others think it’s a misinterpretation of data. There is a higher chance of cannabis use among those with schizophrenia, and juvenile use has a strong connection. Experts debate whether cannabis is a cause or only dangerous for those already at risk. Skeptics believe the data shows people with psychotic issues are more likely to try cannabis. The only certain link is the temporary effect of drug use, including delusions, paranoia, and hallucinations.
There have been several studies showing a link between cannabis and psychosis, particularly in the case of the mental disorder schizophrenia. Some people think the link between cannabis and psychosis is direct, while others think it’s a misinterpretation of the data. It is also possible that marijuana can cause a mild form of psychosis, and this could be seen as another connection between cannabis and psychosis. Many experts have used the possibility of a connection as a reason to oppose the legalization of marijuana, but many marijuana enthusiasts think this position is unfounded.
Research has shown that there is a 20 to 40 percent chance that people with schizophrenia have used cannabis at some point in their lives. This is higher than the percentage in the overall population, and most experts agree it is scientifically significant. The data also show a particularly strong connection between juvenile marijuana use and schizophrenia.
Some experts think marijuana is a real cause of schizophrenia, while others think it’s only dangerous if a person is already at risk of developing the disorder. These experts think that a person with a risk factor, such as a genetic history of psychosis, for example, might have a better chance of actually developing a problem if they smoke marijuana. There is also data showing that people who very commonly smoke marijuana have brain patterns similar to those seen in many schizophrenics.
Research data skeptics believe that experts are looking at information from the wrong angle. Many skeptics think the data simply shows that people with psychotic issues are more likely to try cannabis. It is generally quite common for people with psychotic problems to use drugs as a way to deal with the stress they experience due to their mental difficulties. It is also true that people suffering from psychotic disorders are often marginalized in society, which can potentially lead to depression and substance abuse.
The only absolutely certain link between cannabis and psychosis is the immediate temporary effect of drug use. People taking the drug are usually unable to interpret reality correctly, and their emotional reactions to things are often wildly unpredictable and abnormal. They often have mental delusions along with severe paranoia, both of which are very common symptoms of schizophrenia. Some cannabis users also experience mild auditory and visual hallucinations while under the influence of the drug.
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