When you smoke marijuana, the chemicals found in the smoke are absorbed into the lining of the lungs and passed on to the bloodstream, where they circulate throughout the body until they reach the brain. Several areas of the brain have nerve cells outfitted with cannabinoid receptors that bind to THC molecules and other similar psychoactive compounds. The primary areas of the brain with these specialized receptors include those responsible for memory, thought, concentration and coordination, sensory and time perception – all the senses and functions affected by using marijuana.

How Marijuana Affects the Brain

Long-term marijuana use most notably affects memory and cognitive (brain) function. Remembering events that just happened, learning and recalling information, focusing attention and performing complicated tasks become grueling work. These types of symptoms are normally the result of our body’s natural aging process – around age 70.

Recent findings indicate continued exposure to marijuana creates changes in the brain that are similar to other addictive substances, like cocaine or alcohol, making it more likely for users to become easily addicted to other drugs as well.

Marijuana and its Effects

Inhaled marijuana acts quickly on the central nervous system causing:

• Intoxication
• Dry mouth
• Bloodshot eyes
• Rapid heartbeat
• Rise in blood pressure
• Loss of coordination and balance
• Slowed reaction/response time
• Depending on the potency of the plant, effects can last anywhere from two to eight hours, with THC remaining in the user’s body fat for 30 days or more.

Marijuana: Having a Bad Reaction

Yes, it is possible to suffer from increased anxiety and paranoia when using marijuana, especially when using:

• for the first time,
• in strange surroundings,
• plants containing extremely potent levels of THC, and
• other drugs in combination with marijuana, such as cocaine or PCP.
• In rare instances, severe psychosis-a complete break from reality-may require emergency medical attention to prevent the user from harming themselves or others.

Marijuana, the Brain and Mental Illness

The jury is still out on whether drug addiction causes mental illness or vice versa, or if both problems are created by independent factors like environment or genetics. One thing is known for certain: large quantities of marijuana can trigger psychotic reactions in people previously diagnosed with psychotic disorders (such as schizophrenia).

Additionally, higher rates of depression, anxiety, paranoia, and suicidal thoughts are found among users of marijuana causes mental illness or vice versa, or if both problems are created by independent factors like environment or genetics. One thing is known for certain: large quantities of marijuana can trigger psychotic reactions in people previously diagnosed with psychotic disorders (such as schizophrenia). Additionally, higher rates of depression, anxiety, paranoia, and suicidal thoughts are found among users of marijuana.