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Scary Ways Marijuana Impacts the Developing Brain
Mounting research shows that marijuana use leads to significant impacts on the developing brain. And they aren’t good.
These days, people talk about marijuana, pot, weed, or cannabis as a natural health remedy for issues like chronic pain, nausea, and anxiety. But this controversial substance, which is revered by some for its calming effects, comes with a host of side effects, especially in adolescents and teens.
Mounting research shows that cannabis use leads to significant impacts on the developing brain. And they aren’t good.
In this blog, you’ll discover the scary ways cannabis use alters human brain function. And how these changes can have lifelong consequences.
WHAT IS CANNABIS?
With so much information about cannabis coming at you from news sources, social media, and health professionals, it can be challenging to know fact from fiction. However, a wealth of emerging science is helping clear up the cannabis confusion.
To simplify things, understand that cannabis is comprised of over 120 components called cannabinoids. Two of the most well-researched cannabinoids are cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
- CBD: A psychoactive cannabinoid, CBD is not intoxicating and does not produce a feeling of euphoria. Basically, it won’t make you feel “high.” It’s commonly used to help decrease inflammation and reduce pain, but it may also be used to alleviate anxiety, nausea, migraines, and seizures. CBD is widely available in the form of oils, gummies, and other products for these purposes.
- THC: This is the primary psychoactive compound found in cannabis. It is responsible for producing the “high” commonly associated with its use.
CANNABIS EFFECTS ON NEURODEVELOPMENT AND VULNERABILITY
Endocannabinoid System (ECS) Disruption
The endocannabinoid system plays a crucial role in brain development, including synaptic pruning, neurogenesis, and the regulation of neurotransmitter release. This system includes cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2), endogenous cannabinoids (endocannabinoids like anandamide and 2-AG), and enzymes for their synthesis and degradation.
- CB1 Receptors: These are abundant in brain regions involved in cognitive function, emotion, and reward, such as the prefrontal cortex, hippocampus, amygdala, and basal ganglia.
- CB2 Receptors: Although less abundant in the brain, they are present in microglia and are involved in immune response and neuroinflammation.
THC, the psychoactive component of marijuana, binds to CB1 receptors, leading to altered endocannabinoid signaling. During adolescence, the ECS is especially active and critical for proper brain maturation. Research suggests that disruption by exogenous cannabinoids can interfere with these processes.
Synaptic Pruning and Neuroplasticity
In the developing brain, several important processes occur during adolescence. Using marijuana may interfere with this critical phase.
- Synaptic Pruning: During adolescence, the brain undergoes extensive synaptic pruning, eliminating weaker synapses and strengthening others. This process is vital for efficient neural circuitry and cognitive function. A 2021 study shows that THC exposure can disrupt synaptic pruning, leading to aberrant neural connections and impaired cognitive abilities.
- Neuroplasticity: Marijuana affects neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to reorganize and form new neural connections. Research shows that THC can impair long-term potentiation (LTP), a process crucial for learning and memory.
Neurogenesis
The hippocampus, a region critical for learning and memory, continues to generate new neurons throughout life. Chronic THC exposure can reduce hippocampal neurogenesis, leading to memory deficits and cognitive decline, according to a study in Translational Psychiatry.
CANNABIS IMPACTS ON NEUROTRANSMITTER SYSTEMS
Neurotransmitters are the chemical messengers used by the nervous system to allow neurons to communicate with each other or other part of the body. Because these neurochemicals transmit information between the brain and body, they are critically important to overall health and well-being. Specific neurotransmitter systems that are affected by marijuana use include the dopaminergic, glutaminergic, and GABAergic systems.
Dopaminergic System
- Reward Pathway: Evidence suggests that THC affects the dopaminergic system by increasing dopamine release in the mesolimbic pathway (reward pathway). Chronic use can lead to dysregulation of dopamine signaling, contributing to altered reward processing, increased risk of addiction, and mood disorders.
- Cognitive Functions: Dopamine is also crucial for executive functions, including attention, working memory, and decision-making. Disruption in dopamine signaling can impair these cognitive functions.
Glutamatergic and GABAergic Systems
- Glutamate: THC reduces glutamate release, affecting synaptic plasticity and cognitive function, according to research. Glutamate is essential for long-term potentiation and memory formation.
- GABA: THC enhances GABAergic activity, which can lead to inhibitory effects on neuronal activity. This imbalance between excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmission can impair cognitive processing and emotional regulation.
STRUCTURAL AND FUNCTIONAL BRAIN CHANGES
Prefrontal Cortex
The prefrontal cortex (PFC), responsible for executive functions such as decision-making, planning, and impulse control, is one of the last brain regions to mature. THC exposure during adolescence can alter the development of the PFC, leading to long-term deficits in these functions.
- Structural Changes: Imaging studies show that adolescent marijuana users may have reduced gray matter volume in the PFC.
- Functional Impairments: Functional MRI (fMRI) studies indicate altered PFC activity during tasks requiring executive function and decision-making.
Hippocampus
The hippocampus is particularly vulnerable to THC due to its high density of CB1 receptors.
- Structural Changes: Chronic marijuana use is associated with reduced hippocampal volume.
- Memory and Learning: Functional deficits in the hippocampus manifest as impairments in spatial memory and learning.
LONG-TERM BEHAVIORAL AND COGNITIVE CONSEQUENCES
Cognitive Decline
- IQ and Academic Performance: Longitudinal studies suggest that early marijuana use is associated with a decline in IQ and poorer academic outcomes. These cognitive impairments can persist even after cessation of use.
- Attention and Memory: Deficits in attention, working memory, and verbal memory are commonly observed in adolescent marijuana users.
Mental Health Issues
- Psychosis and Schizophrenia: Marijuana use can increase the risk of developing psychotic disorders, such as schizophrenia. The risk is higher with early onset and frequent use.
- Mood Disorders: Marijuana use is associated with an increased risk of psychiatric disorders, such as clinical depression and anxiety disorders. Chronic use can exacerbate these conditions and contribute to emotional dysregulation.
Addiction and Substance Use Disorders
- Marijuana Use Disorder: Adolescents are more susceptible to developing marijuana use disorder compared to adults. The earlier the onset of use, the higher the risk of developing dependence.
As you can see from this blog, the science on cannabis use during adolescence strongly indicates that it interferes with healthy brain development and leads to lasting consequences. If your teenager is using marijuana regularly, it’s important to seek help from a mental health professional or a specialist in addiction treatment.
The earlier adolescents get help and stop using cannabis, the better for their brain. And with a better brain, they will have a better life.
Dr. Rishi Sood is Associate Medical Director of Amen Clinics Inc. and a child and adult psychiatrist.
Reviewed by Amen Clinics Inc. Clinicians
We Are Here For You
Substance use disorders and other mental health conditions can’t wait. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, clinical evaluations, and therapy for adults, teens, children, and couples. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834 or visit our contact page here.
Rishi Sood
Jacobus, Joanna, and Susan F Tapert. “Effects of cannabis on the adolescent brain.” Current pharmaceutical design vol. 20,13 (2014): 2186-93. doi:10.2174/13816128113199990426
Bara, Anissa et al. “Cannabis and synaptic reprogramming of the developing brain.” Nature reviews. Neuroscience vol. 22,7 (2021): 423-438. doi:10.1038/s41583-021-00465-5
Misner, D L, and J M Sullivan. “Mechanism of cannabinoid effects on long-term potentiation and depression in hippocampal CA1 neurons.” The Journal of neuroscience : the official journal of the Society for Neuroscience vol. 19,16 (1999): 6795-805. doi:10.1523/JNEUROSCI.19-16-06795.1999
Yücel, M et al. “Hippocampal harms, protection and recovery following regular cannabis use.” Translational psychiatry vol. 6,1 e710. 12 Jan. 2016, doi:10.1038/tp.2015.201
Bloomfield, Michael A P et al. “The effects of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol on the dopamine system.” Nature vol. 539,7629 (2016): 369-377. doi:10.1038/nature20153
Colizzi, Marco et al. “Effect of cannabis on glutamate signalling in the brain: A systematic review of human and animal evidence.” Neuroscience and Biobehavioral Reviews vol. 64 (2016): 359-81. doi:10.1016/j.neubiorev.2016.03.010
Orr C, et al. “Grey Matter Volume Differences Associated with Extremely Low Levels of Cannabis Use in Adolescence.” Journal of Neuroscience (2019), 39(10): 1817-1827; DOI: 10.1523/JNEUROSCI.3375-17.2018
Colyer-Patel, K., Romein, C., Kuhns, L. et al. Recent Evidence on the Relation Between Cannabis Use, Brain Structure, and Function: Highlights and Challenges. Curr Addict Rep 11, 371–383 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40429-024-00557-z
Jackson NJ, et al. “Impact of adolescent marijuana use on intelligence: Results from two longitudinal twin studies.” PNAS, 113 (5) E500-E508 (2016). https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.1516648113
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Alcohol or Marijuana: Which is Worse for Your Brain?
Amen Clinics
Founded in 1989 by double-board certified psychiatrist and neuroscientist Daniel G. Amen, MD, Amen Clinics Inc. (ACI) is known as the best brain and mental health company in the world. Our clinical staff includes over 50 healthcare specialists, including adult and child psychiatrists, integrative (functional) medicine physicians, naturopaths, addiction specialists, forensic psychiatrists, geriatric psychiatrists, nutritionists, licensed therapists, and more. Our clinicians have all been hand-selected and personally trained by Dr. Amen, whose mission is to end mental illness by creating a revolution in brain health. Over the last 35-plus years, ACI has built the world’s largest database of functional brain scans—over 250,000 SPECT scans on patients from 155 countries—related to how people think, feel, and behave.
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August 6, 2024
This blog has been updated since its original publication date.
One of the most common things people want to know is whether alcohol or marijuana is worse for your brain and overall health. The brain-imaging work at Amen Clinics and recent research suggest that neither one is good for you.
Alcohol is not a health food, and marijuana is not an innocuous substance—it is a drug. But is one of them more damaging than the other?
At first glance, it might seem that alcohol does the most damage to our brain health and general well-being because it is more widely used. Over 84% of American adults say they’ve consumed alcohol at some point in their lives. And nearly 64% of Americans aged 12 and over say they’ve had a drink in the past year, as reported by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA).
Compare that to just 19% of Americans, including young people, who said they used marijuana in 2019, according to the Center for Disease Control (CDC). Although not as widespread, the harmful effects of marijuana on the brain, including brain development, may be greater.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the worst consequences of drinking and marijuana.
CONSEQUENCES OF DRINKING ALCOHOL
There are many consequences of consuming alcoholic beverages, whether it’s beer, wine, champagne, cocktails, hard seltzer, or other types of alcohol. Here are some of the biggest repercussions.
Death: According to the NIAAA, over 178,000 deaths annually can be blamed on excessive alcohol use. This puts alcohol at #4 on the list of leading preventable causes of death in the U.S., just after tobacco, poor diet/physical inactivity, and illegal drugs.
Chronic health conditions: Some of the leading causes of alcohol-related deaths are liver disease, heart disease (including heart attack), stroke, cancer, and high blood pressure.
Traffic fatalities: Statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Association (NHTSA) show that in the U.S., approximately 30% of all traffic accident deaths involve drunk driving. An estimated 32 Americans lose their lives each day in crashes where someone is driving drunk.
Alcohol use disorder: For some people, drinking leads to addiction, as 29.5 million people from the young age of 12 and up have an alcohol use disorder, according to the 2022 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSUDH). Addiction can impair a family environment and destroy relationships.
Binge drinking: Over 21% of American adults engaged in binge drinking in the past month, according to the NIAAA. Binge drinking is defined as consuming 5 or more drinks for men and 4 or more drinks for women within a span of about 2 hours.
Binge drinking leads to a litany of serious consequences, such as injuries, violence, risky sexual behavior, unwanted pregnancy, and more.
Reduced brain volume: Drinking alcohol, even just 1-7 drinks per week, is associated with brain shrinkage, according to a study in JAMA Neurology. A study published in the BMJ shows that having just 1-2 glasses of wine per day is associated with atrophy in the hippocampus, an area of the brain involved in mood, memory, and learning.
Heightened risk of dementia: Recent research suggests that people who are moderate to heavy drinkers are at a 57% increased risk of developing dementia. Brain SPECT scans of heavy drinkers evaluated at Amen Clinics show low blood flow in the brain, which is the #1 brain-imaging predictor that a person will develop Alzheimer’s disease.
Poor decision-making: Even in people who are light drinkers, consuming alcohol impacts brain function and can lead to bad decisions. When people drink, it lowers blood flow to the prefrontal cortex, which is involved in impulse control, judgment, the ability to solve problems, and forethought.
Normally, the brain builds connections when focused on these functions, but alcohol impairs this process and makes people more likely to say or do things that get you in trouble—relationship trouble, financial trouble, or legal trouble.
Depression and mental health issues: Some people use alcohol as a way to self-medicate symptoms from mental disorders, such as anxiety and depression. Although drinking may temporarily provide relief from of symptoms, it ultimately exacerbates depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions.
ADVERSE BRAIN HEALTH EFFECTS OF MARIJUANA USE
How does marijuana affect the brain and body? Marijuana use is associated with a wide range of consequences. Some of the well-known physical health effects of marijuana include slowed motor skills as well as emphysema from exposure to marijuana smoke and other chemicals in cannabis.
How much marijuana a person uses can make a difference. Substance abuse, also known as substance use disorder, increases the risk of negative consequences and the severity of problems.
If you’ve been wondering, “Is weed bad for the brain?” take a look at the following research findings:
Traffic fatalities: A notable research study published in the Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs found that traffic fatalities increased by 4% and accidents with injuries jumped by close to 6% in states that had legalized recreational marijuana.
Cannabis affects reaction time, judgment, and other critical brain functions, and high doses of cannabis products cause greater impairment.
Increased risk of depression and suicidality: Most people associate recreational use of marijuana with getting high and happy (or even to treat pain). However, a 2019 review in JAMA Psychiatry concluded that early exposure, including adolescent marijuana use, is associated with a higher risk of brain problems, such as depression, suicidal ideation, and suicide attempts.
Young adults and older folks who use cannabis regularly are also vulnerable to these mental health problems because of the effects of marijuana on the brain—even in those who might not have cannabis use disorder.
Fuels anxiety: According to a study in Neurology, more research suggests that some people who smoke marijuana (or ingest it) with higher levels of THC, the compound in the cannabis plant that causes the psychoactive effects in the brain, increased anxiousness is a common problem.
Makes you psychotic: Research in The Lancet Psychiatry about marijuana exposure shows that high-potency cannabis use may be responsible for 10% of new cases of psychosis.
Impairs memory: Using marijuana temporarily disrupts brain activity, including memory formation and puts you at risk for cognitive dysfunction later in life, according to research in JAMA Internal Medicine.
Researchers have found that THC (one of the most active ingredients) attaches to receptors in brain areas associated with memory, including the brain structure called the hippocampus.
Of course, heavy marijuana use and other factors can make that risk even higher. And, more research that was published in The American Journal of Psychiatry found that IQ points decreased in long-term heavy cannabis users compared to non-users.
Decreases brain health: In an Amen Clinics brain imaging study on the drivers of brain aging that was published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, cannabis abuse, especially cannabis use disorder—one of the most common types of drug abuse—was second only to schizophrenia in accelerating brain aging.
Schizophrenia was associated with 4 years of premature aging while cannabis substance abuse represented 2.8 years of accelerated aging. Clearly, stopping marijuana use can reduce this risk.
Alcohol abuse represented 0.6 years of accelerated aging and came in fifth on the list after bipolar disorder (1.6 years of accelerated aging) and ADD/ADHD (1.4 years of accelerated aging).
THE ALCOHOL VS. MARIJUANA CONCLUSION
So which substance is worse? Alcohol has more far-reaching consequences because it is consumed by so many more people. However, marijuana users—including medical marijuana users—are at higher risk when it comes to the direct impact of cannabis on brain development and brain aging.
For obvious reasons, heavy marijuana use can lead to even worse brain health consequences. The bottom line in terms of brain health and cognitive impairment along with overall well-being, is to eliminate or reduce the use of both these substances.
Addictions, including cannabis use disorder and alcohol use disorders, and other mental health issues can’t wait. At Amen Clinics, we’re here for you. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, clinical evaluations, and therapy for adults, teens, children, and couples. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834 or visit our contact page here.
Reviewed by Amen Clinics Inc. Clinicians
Founded in 1989 by double-board certified psychiatrist and neuroscientist Daniel G. Amen, MD, Amen Clinics Inc. (ACI) is known as the best brain and mental health company in the world. Our clinical staff includes over 50 healthcare specialists, including adult and child psychiatrists, integrative (functional) medicine physicians, naturopaths, addiction specialists, forensic psychiatrists, geriatric psychiatrists, nutritionists, licensed therapists, and more.
Our clinicians have all been hand-selected and personally trained by Dr. Amen, whose mission is to end mental illness by creating a revolution in brain health. Over the last 30-plus years, ACI has built the world’s largest database of functional brain scans—over 250,000 SPECT scans on patients from 155 countries—related to how people think, feel, and behave.
Dr. Amen is also the founder of BrainMD, a fast growing, science-based nutraceutical company, and Amen University, which has trained thousands of medical and mental health professionals on the methods he has developed.
In addition, he has produced 16 national public television shows about the brain and his online videos on brain and mental health have been viewed over 300 million times. Dr. Amen is a 12-time New York Times bestselling author, including Change Your Brain, Change Your Life; The End of Mental Illness; Healing ADD; and many more. Hist latest book, Raising Mentally Strong Kids, was published March 2024.
REFERENCES
National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. Alcohol Facts and Statistics. https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/alcohols-effects-health/alcohol-topics/alcohol-facts-and-statistics
Centers for Disease Control. Cannabis Facts and Stats, Feb. 22, 2024. https://www.cdc.gov/cannabis/data-research/facts-stats/index.html
National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. Alcohol-Related Emergencies and Deaths in the United States (updated 2024). https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/alcohols-effects-health/alcohol-topics/alcohol-facts-and-statistics/alcohol-related-emergencies-and-deaths-united-states
NHTSA. Drunk Driving. https://nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/drunk-driving
National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) in the United States: Age Groups and Demographic Characteristics (updated 2024). 2022 National Survey on Drug Use and Health. https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/alcohols-effects-health/alcohol-topics/alcohol-facts-and-statistics/alcohol-use-disorder-aud-united-states-age-groups-and-demographic-characteristics
National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. Prevalence of Past-Month Binge Drinking. https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/alcohols-effects-health/alcohol-topics/alcohol-facts-and-statistics/alcohol-use-united-states-age-groups-and-demographic-characteristics
Paul CA, Au R, Fredman L, et al. Association of Alcohol Consumption With Brain Volume in the Framingham Study. Arch Neurol. 2008;65(10):1363–1367. doi:10.1001/archneur.65.10.1363
Topiwala A, Allan C L, Valkanova V, Zsoldos E, Filippini N, Sexton C et al. Moderate alcohol consumption as risk factor for adverse brain outcomes and cognitive decline: longitudinal cohort study BMJ 2017; 357 :j2353 doi:10.1136/bmj.j2353
Elizabeth P. Handing, Ross Andel, Pavla Kadlecova, Margaret Gatz, Nancy L. Pedersen. Midlife Alcohol Consumption and Risk of Dementia Over 43 Years of Follow-Up: A Population-Based Study From the Swedish Twin Registry, The Journals of Gerontology: Series A, Volume 70, Issue 10, October 2015, Pages 1248–1254, https://doi.org/10.1093/gerona/glv038
Charles M. Farmer, Samuel S. Monfort, and Amber N. Woods. Changes in Traffic Crash Rates After Legalization of Marijuana: Results by Crash Severity. Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs 2022 83:4 , 494-501. https://doi.org/10.15288/jsad.2022.83.494
Gobbi G, Atkin T, Zytynski T, Wang S, Askari S, Boruff J, Ware M, Marmorstein N, Cipriani A, Dendukuri N, Mayo N. Association of Cannabis Use in Adolescence and Risk of Depression, Anxiety, and Suicidality in Young Adulthood: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. JAMA Psychiatry. 2019 Apr 1;76(4):426-434. doi: 10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2018.4500. Erratum in: JAMA Psychiatry. 2019 Apr 1;76(4):447. doi: 10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2019.0464. PMID: 30758486; PMCID: PMC6450286.
Koppel, Barbara S et al. “Systematic review: efficacy and safety of medical marijuana in selected neurologic disorders: report of the Guideline Development Subcommittee of the American Academy of Neurology.” Neurology vol. 82,17 (2014): 1556-63. doi:10.1212/WNL.0000000000000363
Di Forti M, et al. The contribution of cannabis use to variation in the incidence of psychotic disorder across Europe (EU-GEI): a multicentre case-control study. The Lancet Psychiatry, vol. 6,5 (2019): 427-436. DOI:https://doi.org/10.1016/S2215-0366(19)30048-3
Auer R, Vittinghoff E, Yaffe K, et al. Association Between Lifetime Marijuana Use and Cognitive Function in Middle Age: The Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults (CARDIA) Study. JAMA Intern Med. 2016;176(3):352–361. doi:10.1001/jamainternmed.2015.7841
Heier MH, et al. Long-Term Cannabis Use and Cognitive Reserves and Hippocampal Volume in Midlife. American Journal of Psychiatry, Vol. 179,5 (2022): 362-374
https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.ajp.2021.21060664
WHAT IS “CALI SOBER”?
Before exploring the answer, it’s worth briefly understanding why people choose semi-sobriety in the first place. The singer Demi Lovato (who uses them/their pronouns and has been remarkably generous in sharing details of their struggles with drug abuse and mental health) wrote a song called “California Sober” last year. Is a Cali sober lifestyle safe, or does it still harm your brain, mood, and cognitive function? Demi Lovato has changed their tune on the subject. “I’m California sober,” crooned Lovato, who came close to dying from a drug overdose in 2018. “It doesn’t have to mean the growing part is over.” Used to live in fear of always slipping But living for perfection isn’t living, I ran a little slower, now I’m tripping, A beautiful and magical beginning. By consuming fewer, or supposedly less-harmful intoxicants, Cali sober adherents claim they are cleaning up their acts, at least a bit, and are the better for it. While it’s both logical, and scientifically supported, that reducing consumption of mind-altering substances corresponds to a reduction in physical harm, it does not eliminate it. Far from it, in fact. Mounting research shows that strikingly low levels of alcohol, and other substances, can have far more negative consequences for a person’s brain health—both right away and over the long-term—than is commonly believed.CALI SOBER AND THE DANGEROUS ALLURE OF ‘JUST ONE DRINK’
One new study, published in Science Daily in August, found that even one drink a day can reduce a person’s brain size. That solo drink can permanently impact the brain’s neurons, the way they interact and the way their mitochondria operate, the study found. “These results suggest that even a single consumption event can lay the foundation for alcohol addiction,” according to the authors of the study. The authors used a large data set, scrutinizing brain MRIs from more than 36,000 middle-aged to older adults in the United Kingdom. The scans showed that the white and gray matter in the study participants’ brains shrunk with even light-to-moderate alcohol use. In another finding that supports the central Cali sober idea, the study did reveal that the heaviest alcohol users benefited greatly from cutting back from three glasses to two glasses a night. But while this is true, it does not address the damage done by such seemingly moderate alcohol consumption. The news isn’t much better when it comes to embracing marijuana or psychedelics as “healthier” substitutes for drinking.CALI SOBER AND MARIJUANA: NOT SO INNOCUOUS AFTER ALL
Even using marijuana temporarily can impair the creation of memories and expose people to the risk of cognitive dysfunction as they age, according to a study in JAMA Internal Medicine. The researchers followed more than 5,000 people for more than 25 years beginning in 1986 through 2011. For every additional five years of marijuana use, participants remembered one fewer word from a list of 15 words. Adolescents who use cannabis run a higher risk of depression, suicidal ideation, and suicide attempts, according to a 2019 review in JAMA Psychiatry. Equally worrisome, as many as 10% of new cases of psychosis—the temporary inability to distinguish what is real from what isn’t—may be associated with taking high-potency cannabis, according to research in The Lancet Psychiatry. When it comes to the greatest contributing risk factors in speeding up how quickly a brain ages, the use of cannabis came in second, after schizophrenia, according to an Amen Clinics brain imaging study published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease. The study involved a review of 62,454 brain SPECT scans, in a collaboration between Amen Clinics, Google, Johns Hopkins University, and the University of California in both Los Angeles and San Francisco. The study found that while alcohol abuse represented 0.6 years of accelerated aging, cannabis abuse was even worse, representing 2.8 years of accelerated aging. At number one on the list, schizophrenia represented 4 years. “The cannabis abuse finding was especially important, as our culture is starting to see marijuana as an innocuous substance,” Dr. Daniel Amen said of the investigation. “This study should give us pause about it.FROM MUSHROOMS TO MOLLY—MORE CAUSE FOR CONCERN IF YOU’RE CALI SOBER
When it comes to psilocybin, the psychoactive chemical in magic mushrooms, more research needs to be done, but early findings suggest people should approach them with caution. A 2020 brain imaging study in the journal NeuroImage found that psilocybin drug lowers activity in a part of the brain called the claustrum by studying brain scans of people before and after they took the drug. Although people who take mushrooms famously report effects that range from seeing colors more vividly, to thinking unusual thoughts and feelings of euphoria, it’s not the case for everybody. Some people report nausea, numbness, anxiety, paranoia, panic attacks, fear, and feeling depressed. And while MDMA, also known by the street drug names Ecstasy or Molly, releases serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine—all neurotransmitters associated with pleasure and well-being—there can be downsides. Levels of serotonin, for example, can be depleted following the use of MDMA, prompting adverse psychological impacts. Regions of the brain associated with impulse control and attention, working memory, and visual information processing can be impacted by long-term MDMA use.IS CALI SOBER HEALTHY?
Let’s return to the allure of that single glass of wine. At Amen Clinics, the evidence from brain imaging studies demonstrates that even one glass of beer or wine per day can be directly toxic to brain function. The SPECT scans of people who drink excessively—more than three drinks a week—appear toxic. More generally, alcohol can harm the brain and body in numerous ways. It is associated with:- Sleep disruption
- Peripheral neuropathies (pain and tingling in hands, legs, and feet). This refers to damage to neurons, especially those in the cerebellum, which is involved in physical and thought coordination, and mood.
- Fatty liver disease
- Malabsorption of vitamin B1, which predisposes people to serious cognitive problems.
- Decreased firing in the prefrontal cortex, the seat of our personalities, and the part of the brain that oversees cognitive decision-making.
- Increased sugar abuse
- Over-stimulated appetite, by keeping a person seated at the table and continuing to eat past the point of feeling full.
- Increased insulin production, which can lower blood sugar levels, impairing decision-making.
- Increased risk of cancer and physical injuries. A known carcinogen, alcohol is associated with 5.8% of all cancer deaths.
- Traffic fatalities. Just under a third of all traffic-related deaths involve alcohol, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Association (NHTSA).
DELUSIONS, HALLUCINATIONS, AND OTHER PSYCHOSIS SYMPTOMS
NAMI notes that psychosis, overall, is “characterized as disruptions to a person’s thoughts and perceptions that make it difficult for them to recognize what is real and what isn’t.” One manifestation of this kind of skewed experience among drug users is having delusions, which involves clinging to beliefs that have no basis in reality. For example, a person may believe that the federal government has installed surveillance to spy on them, even though no evidence of this exists. Hallucinations, on the other hand, involve seeing or hearing things that aren’t there or having unusual bodily sensations, such as the feeling that bugs are crawling on the skin. Other psychotic symptoms include disorganized thinking and incoherent speech; abnormal or disorganized movements, including catatonia, or lack of movement; diminished emotional expression; and “negative symptoms” (lack of engagement in activities, speaking, socializing, etc.). In general, psychotic symptoms can range from mild to severe, causing levels of impairment that can affect an individual’s ability to function, leading them to struggle with basic tasks like maintaining interpersonal relationships, attending work or school, and keeping up with basic self-care.CANNABIS, ALCOHOL, AND PSYCHOTIC SYMPTOMS
Substance-induced psychotic disorder is the term used for a person experiencing any of the above symptoms as a result of taking or withdrawing from a drug (and, as a reminder, alcohol is a drug that can damage the brain). Cannabis-induced psychosis seems to occur even more commonly today, as new and stronger strains of the drug circulate, and as legalization efforts increase their usage and acceptance. Research shows that marijuana increases the risk for psychosis, and the findings of a 2019 study published in The Lancet Psychiatry suggest that 10% of new cases of psychosis may be linked to high-potency cannabis. The study also found that daily users of high-potency strains were 5 times more likely to develop a psychotic disorder. Other research has shown that using marijuana at an early age, such as during the teen or tween years, is associated with an increased risk of psychosis. A 2021 medical review noted that psychosis due to substance abuse is now a common issue observed in medical settings, and the likelihood of developing psychosis “seems to be associated with the severity of use and dependence.” Additionally, with new substances now frequently emerging, it can be difficult to track everything that is available through illicit markets, along with fully studying their long-term effects. “The variety of substances able to provoke an episode of acute psychosis is rapidly increasing,” the report stated. Alcohol, on the other hand, is more often associated with hallucinations in someone who has abused alcohol for a time and/or has ingested heavier quantities—often when they are trying to quit. This is called alcoholic hallucinosis, and it’s an alarming side effect of chronic alcohol abuse. Research has noted this issue usually involves “acoustic verbal hallucinations, delusions, and mood disturbances arising in clear consciousness and sometimes may progress to a chronic form, mimicking schizophrenia.” Another term for this issue is alcohol-related psychosis, and substance abuse researchers explain that it can also occur as a result of acute intoxication after an episode of heavy intake—creating symptoms like hallucinations, paranoia, and fear.RISK FACTORS FOR PSYCHOSIS
American Addiction Centers notes that using substances like marijuana can increase the risk of psychosis among those who are already vulnerable based on other factors. These factors include:- Genetics
- Traumatic events (such as wartime military service or sexual assault)
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Brain conditions (such as dementia)
- Other mental health issues (such as bipolar disorder or depression)
CHALLENGES OF TREATING PSYCHOTIC DISORDERS
The nature of psychotic disorders—such as ongoing thought disturbances and the failure to accurately perceive reality—means that they are considered among the most challenging psychiatric conditions to address. Treatment is possible and may include psychotherapy, medication, lifestyle changes, and other methods of management, so someone who suffers from psychotic conditions can take steps to manage symptoms. Still, especially if there are pre-existing vulnerabilities, it’s best to avoid the chances of these episodes occurring to begin with. Steer clear of dangerous and addictive substances like marijuana and alcohol, which can lead to the frightening, reality-twisting symptoms of psychosis. Unfortunately, most people with addictions or dependencies on drugs like marijuana and alcohol do not receive treatment, such as entering residential programs. But if you or someone you love is affected by addiction, be proactive and seek help, not only for the addiction but also for the underlying factors that contribute to the problem. It is crucial to address these issues before they lead to the possible lasting damage associated with psychosis. Psychotic symptoms, addiction, and other mental health issues can’t wait. At Amen Clinics, we’re here for you. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, remote clinical evaluations, and video therapy for adults, children, and couples. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834 or visit our contact page here. As marijuana is being legalized in an increasing number of states, a rising number of people are turning to the drug to help with anxiousness, sadness, sleep, stress, relaxation, concentration, boredom, and more. Some people use marijuana only occasionally, but others develop cannabis dependence. Whether you are a recreational user or have slipped into addiction, there are many reasons why you might want to stop, including these consequences associated with marijuana:- Reduced blood flow to the brain
- Memory issues
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Paranoia
- Learning problems
- Attention issues
- Poor decision-making
- Legal problems
- Lung disease
- The “munchies” that lead to weight gain
11 STEPS TO STOP MARIJUANA USE
1. Treat any underlying factors that drove you to use marijuana in the first place.
Many people start using cannabis to cope with past emotional trauma or feelings of depression, anxiousness, or chronic stress. Addressing those issues and learning brain-based strategies to overcome them can reduce your reliance on marijuana as a self-medicating substance.2. Choose a strategy.
In general, there are 2 primary ways to go about quitting marijuana:- Going cold turkey, which involves stopping all usage abruptly
- Tapering use, which means gradually reducing your usage over time
3. Quit cold turkey.
If you select this method, choose a date and get prepared to stop.4. Choose how to taper your use.
If you want to taper off, there are several ways you can do it.- Use less marijuana each time.
- Use the drug on fewer days.
- Opt for a lower-potency product.
5. Give yourself a deadline.
If you choose to taper down, choose a goal when you will stop using completely. For example, you might want to taper down until your current stash is depleted or you may want to decrease your usage over a set period of time, such as 1 or 2 months.6. Get rid of all paraphernalia.
To help avoid temptation, prepare for quitting by throwing out everything that is used with the substance, including:- Bongs
- Bowls
- Pipes
- Rolling papers
- Lighters
7. Know the withdrawal symptoms.
It is common for marijuana users, especially heavy users, to experience symptoms of withdrawal when they quit using the drug. Withdrawal symptoms usually last about a few weeks but can last months in some people. When symptoms linger, it is called post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS). Common signs of marijuana withdrawal include mental health and physical symptoms, such as:- Anxiety
- Depression
- Aggression
- Irritability
- Sleep difficulties
- Cravings
- Appetite changes
- Flu-like symptoms such as fever, sweating, and chills
- Headaches
- Weight loss or gain
8. Have a plan to cope with withdrawal symptoms.
Enhance your body and mind before quitting to facilitate the process. Eat a brain healthy diet that includes lots of organic vegetables and fruits, lean protein, and complex carbohydrates, and eliminate alcohol and sugar. Also be sure to fuel your brain with nutritional supplements that promote relaxation, sleep, or focus, and that promote brighter moods, the ability to cope with stress, and control cravings.9. Engage in new positive habits.
One of the best ways to overcome bad habits is to replace them with healthful habits, such as:- Meditation—Numerous studies show that meditation or prayer helps the brain balance neurochemicals involved in mood, focus, and relaxation. For example, a 2018 study points to mindfulness meditation as having a therapeutic effect on substance abuse and helping prevent relapse.
- Exercise—Physical activity has a mood-boosting effect and increases blood flow to the brain for better cognitive function and decision-making. Research has found that exercise shows promise in helping people overcome substance use disorders.
10. Be prepared for setbacks.
Understand that you may encounter setbacks in your journey to stop using marijuana. When this occurs, be curious not furious. Rather than thinking you have failed and giving up on your efforts to quit, ask yourself why you had a setback. Investigate what led to the relapse. Were you overly tired, hungry, angry, or lonely? When you understand your triggers, you can make a plan to deal with them in a healthier way.11. Follow a neuroscience-based 12-step program.
The current popular 12-step program was developed nearly 90 years ago, and although it has helped many people, it does not work for everyone. It has no neuroscience and doesn’t address the physical functioning of the brain, which is the missing link to breaking any addiction. If you have a cannabis addiction, try Dr. Daniel Amen’s 12-step program that is rooted in brain science: Step 1: Know what you want. Step 2: Know when you have taken yourself hostage. Step 3: Make a decision to care for, balance, and repair your brain. Step 4. Reach for forgiveness for yourself and others. Step 5: Know your addiction brain type. Step 6: Use the neuroscience of craving control. Step 7: Drip dopamine; stop dumping it to keep your pleasure centers healthy. Step 8: Eliminate the pushers and users who make you vulnerable. Step 9: Tame your Dragons from the Past (the stories from your past that continue to breathe fire on your brain and drive anxiety, anger, irrational behavior, and automatic negative reactions) and kill the ANTs (automatic negative thoughts). Step 10: Get help from those who have tamed their own addictions. Step 11: List the people you have hurt and make amends when possible. Step 12: Carry the message of brain health to others.BENEFITS OF STOPPING MARIJUANA
Quitting marijuana is associated with significant benefits. These improvements may occur quickly, or they may develop over the weeks and months after you quit, including:- Improved memory
- Better focus
- Greater energy
- Enhanced motivation
- More positive and balanced moods
- Better breathing
MARIJUANA’S EFFECTS ON THE BRAIN
Overall, marijuana has depressive effects. Brain imaging research at Amen Clinics, studying marijuana use and the brain, showed that marijuana users have lower blood flow in the brain than non-users. On brain SPECT scans, the decreased blood flow was most commonly seen in the hippocampus during concentration tests (when participants engage in a concentration task during the brain imaging process). A 2016 study published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease presented similar findings: After studying imaging of 1,000 cannabis users’ brains, there were signs of noticeable deficiencies in brain blood flow, including in the right hippocampus, the area of the brain that helps with memory formation. These results suggest that marijuana use has a damaging effect on regions important in memory and learning, which are areas also associated with Alzheimer’s. Such effects can even persist over time. Several studies in chronic cannabis users showed that structural changes to the hippocampus show up even after six months of abstinence from the drug.CANNABIS ADDICTION IS REAL
There is also evidence that marijuana is far from “harmless” or “non-addictive.” A study using PET imaging to demonstrate the release of dopamine in the striatum—a region of the brain involved with working memory, impulsive behavior, and attention—showed that THC, marijuana’s main psychoactive compound, created similar dopamine-releasing behaviors as found in other addictive drugs, such as cocaine and heroin. This effect is what keeps people using a drug, even in the face of negative consequences. Therefore, many medical organizations and experts have recognized that prolonged or excessive cannabis use can lead to cannabis use disorder or marijuana use disorder. According to an article published by The Pew Charitable Trusts, these disorders are on the rise—not only because of increased legalization measures but due to the greater potency that accompanies today’s genetically engineered plants and more concentrated products. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) points to recent data suggesting that 30% of those who use marijuana may have some degree of marijuana use disorder. The incidence increases among people who started using marijuana before the age of 18—they are 4 to 7 times more likely to develop a marijuana use disorder than those who start consuming the drug as adults. Studies have even shown that people are at greater risk for psychosis and a range of other risks if they start smoking marijuana at a younger age. In other words, marijuana use can have serious health consequences for people of all ages.SYMPTOMS AND PREVALENCE OF CANNABIS USE DISORDER
What are the hallmarks of marijuana or cannabis use disorder, versus “recreational” use? The NIDA explains that these disorder designations are associated with dependence, which refers to users who experience withdrawal symptoms if they stop taking the drug. They may report symptoms including irritability, mood, and sleep difficulties, decreased appetite, cravings, restlessness, and/or various forms of physical discomfort. These usually peak within the first week after quitting but can last for up to 2 weeks. Beneath these outer symptoms, marijuana dependence occurs when the brain adapts to large amounts of the drug by reducing the production of and sensitivity to its own endocannabinoid neurotransmitters. The NIDA notes that it is possible to be dependent without being addicted, but research suggests that 9% of people who use marijuana will become dependent on it, although the number rises to 17% in those who start using marijuana in their teens. However, in more extreme cases, a disorder can morph into an addiction. Yale Medicine reports that about 13% of U.S. adults use cannabis products, but to be considered addicted, the person should meet at least 2 of the 11 criteria for substance use disorders, as outlined by the American Psychiatric Association. These can include an inability to reduce or halt consumption, frequent cravings, relationship and social problems stemming from the drug’s usage, and the development of tolerance, which means that more of the substance is needed to get the same effects. Finally, like with many drug addictions, marijuana use disorder often goes untreated. The NIDA estimated in 2015 that about 4 million people in the United States met the criteria for marijuana use disorder, but only 138,000 voluntarily sought treatment for their use.THE DEVELOPMENT AND TREATMENT OF CANNABIS USE DISORDER
What determines whether a “recreational” pot smoker will become someone with a use disorder or addiction? This is a complicated question, but a study published in 2020, led by scientists at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, showed that two regions of human DNA “appear to contribute to one’s risk of becoming dependent on marijuana, showing a genetic link.” But, as is often the case, nature meets nurture. The study noted that “researchers also identified behavioral factors linked to problems with marijuana via their genetic overlap, such as risk-taking behavior, schizophrenia, and lower levels of educational attainment.” Ultimately, cannabis use disorder is a serious concern, and continued use of the drug can lead to a range of negative impacts. That’s why it’s important to first identify the problem and then to seek help for usage that raises the red flags of dependence and addiction (or, ideally, to stop usage before it reaches this point). Whether this type of disorder is classified as mild, moderate, or severe, all users can benefit from treatment, though no one type of treatment works for everyone. Therapy, residential treatment, or joining sober communities are just some steps that can be taken to help get a marijuana user on the right track—and prevent further damage to the body and brain. The one factor that most treatment programs miss, however, is that the #1 reason why people get addicted is brain dysfunction. Healing the brain and optimizing brain function must be part of an addiction treatment program to kick the habit for good. Dependence, addiction, and other mental health issues can’t wait. At Amen Clinics, we’re here for you. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, remote clinical evaluations, and video therapy for adults, children, and couples. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834 or visit our contact page here. Marijuana is making headlines these days as a cure-all for a wide range of common issues, such as stress, anxiety, depression, sleep problems, and pain management. Marketers are aggressively pushing this message to consumers, encouraging the use of cannabis as a natural treatment. The message appears to be working, as a national survey in 2018 found that 81% of Americans believe marijuana possesses at least one health benefit. This same survey reported that nearly 30% of adults in the U.S. believe that smoking weed helps prevent certain health issues. But that is only one side of the story. Marketers neglect to mention that a wealth of research shows that marijuana also poses a variety of risks to users. This blog explores 7 common myths about cannabis and presents scientific evidence that gives you the real facts. To help you be more informed about marijuana, it’s essential to understand that it contains two active compounds:- THC (the primary psychoactive compound that causes a high)
- CBD (a non-psychoactive compound)
Myth: Marijuana makes you happy.
Fact: Marijuana increases the risk of depression and suicidality.
Some people may get the giggles while smoking pot, but the happy high doesn’t last. In 2019 JAMA Psychiatry published a review of 11 studies involving 23,317 people. This review found that cannabis use during adolescence increases the likelihood of becoming depressed, having suicidal thoughts, or attempting suicide in young adulthood.Myth: Cannabis helps you sleep better.
Fact: Cannabis can disrupt sleep.
For some people, cannabis induces sleepiness, however, as the drug wears off it has the reverse effect, causing some individuals to awaken in the middle of the night and have a hard time going back to sleep. According to a 2022 study in Regional Anesthesia and Pain Medicine, adults who had used cannabis in the previous month were more likely to sleep less than 6 hours or more than 9 hours. Those who used the drug most frequently tended to be at the extremes of sleep duration—getting too little or too much sleep.Myth: Weed is a natural way to calm anxiety.
Fact: Weed can make some people more anxious.
In the field of psychiatry, the use of marijuana and CBD oil as treatment options for mental health issues like anxiety is becoming more common. Although many people do find temporary relief from anxiousness, not everyone does. In fact, it makes some people feel worse. Research in the journal Neurology shows that higher concentrations of THC are associated with increases in anxiety. Racing thoughts and a fast heart rate, common symptoms of anxiety, have been noted in THC users.Myth: Cannabis makes you more creative.
Fact: Cannabis can induce psychosis.
Although you may feel more expressive while high from marijuana, you are also at increased risk for psychosis, according to research. Just look at the findings of a 2019 study in The Lancet Psychiatry, which suggests that 10% of new cases of psychosis may be linked to high-potency cannabis. The study also found that daily users of high-potency weed were 5 times more likely to develop a psychotic disorder.Myth: Marijuana doesn’t affect memory.
Fact: Marijuana may impair short-term and long-term memory.
Using marijuana temporarily interferes with thinking and negatively impacts short-term memory and working memory. This occurs because THC, the psychoactive compound in marijuana, attaches to receptors in the brain’s memory centers, including the hippocampus. A growing body of research points to a link between cannabis use and memory problems later in life. A 2016 study in JAMA Internal Medicine found that past use of the drug is associated with a decline in verbal memory. Animal research shows that exposure to THC during adolescence is linked to memory problems later in life. In addition, the brain imaging work over the last 30 years at Amen Clinics shows that marijuana use negatively impacts brain structures involved with memory. A 2017 study by Amen Clinics published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease on more than 1,000 marijuana users found that a decrease in blood flow was most pronounced in the hippocampus, one of the brain’s major memory centers.Myth: Cannabis is an innocuous substance.
Fact: Cannabis use negatively impacts the brain.
The Amen Clinics study mentioned above found decreased blood flow in nearly every area of the brain in marijuana users. In the world’s largest brain imaging study based on 62,454 SPECT scans, marijuana use was associated with accelerated aging in the brain. You don’t want a brain that is older than you are.Myth: Smoking pot doesn’t affect your kids.
Fact: Smoking pot can harm future generations.
According to a 2017 report in JAMA, the percentage of women who are smoking weed while pregnant has increased from 2.4% to 3.9%, and it can have disturbing consequences for their offspring. A 2018 review of existing research shows that prenatal exposure to marijuana can impact fetal brain development, lead to cognitive deficits, and increase the risk of neuropsychological problems. In three large-scale longitudinal studies from the U.S., Canada, and the Netherlands, the children of marijuana users exhibited greater impulsivity and hyperactivity, were more likely to have memory issues and had lower IQ scores compared to the offspring of non-users. Other research shows that as adolescents, the kids of pot smokers are at a much greater risk of having attention problems, depressive symptoms, and delinquent behavior. When it comes to marijuana, caution is advised because we need to protect our own cognitive function and psychological health as well as that of future generations. Addictions, anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues can’t wait. At Amen Clinics, we’re here for you. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, clinical evaluations, and therapy for adults, teens, children, and couples. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834 or visit our contact page here. Change your brain, change your life. It’s the concept Daniel G. Amen, MD, first introduced in his mega-bestselling book of the same name. The idea of improving brain health to help overcome symptoms of depression, anxiety, ADHD, memory problems, and more has inspired millions of people around the world to adopt better daily habits. The result for many of them? Feeling happier, calmer, more focused, and sharper. But they often wonder just how much the brain can physically improve in a short amount of time. That’s what Jeff Wittek, a superstar YouTuber with over 3 million subscribers, wanted to know. And it’s why he got a follow-up brain SPECT scan 6 months after his first one. It revealed some very interesting findings.JEFF WITTEK: BEFORE-TREATMENT BRAIN SCANS
In 2020, Wittek experienced a terrible accident in a stunt gone wrong that not only left him with serious injuries to his eye and face but also had a negative impact on his mental health. It left him feeling depressed, anxious, and lost. In May 2021, Wittek visited Amen Clinics and filmed an episode of Scan My Brain. During the visit, the YouTuber had a brain SPECT scan to evaluate his brain function and find out why his mental health was suffering. His brain scan showed that the accident had damaged his brain by reducing blood flow, especially in the frontal lobes, and had increased activity in the emotional and anxiety centers of the brain. Low blood flow in the frontal lobes is associated with problems with forethought, judgment, decision-making, and impulse control. Too much activity in the emotional brain is linked to depression and anxiety. He walked away from the consultation with recommendations to improve his anxiety and to heal depression after a head injury and started implementing them in his life. In an effort to improve his brain health and his psychological well-being, Wittek engaged in hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT), started taking nutritional supplements, and began killing the ANTs (automatic negative thoughts) that infested his mind. How much would it help, he wondered?JEFF WITTEK: AFTER-TREATMENT BRAIN SCANS
Fast forward 6 months. Wittek returned to Amen Clinics for a follow-up SPECT scan to evaluate his progress. In a new episode of Scan My Brain, he says he feels happier and is doing much better. These days, he rates his mood as an 8 out of 10 (on a scale of 1-10 with 10 being best) compared to a 4 just half a year ago. Even better, he says his brighter moods are shining through in his YouTube videos and getting better responses from his viewers. After 6 months of following Dr. Amen’s brain-healthy recommendations, Wittek’s whole outlook has shifted. “I wake up with a purpose…a sense of this is what life’s about more than just stupid jokes,” says Wittek. “I’m still going to do the stupid jokes, but I feel like I’m back to myself.” After 6 months of following Dr. Amen’s brain-healthy recommendations, YouTuber Jeff Wittek says, “I feel like I’m back to myself.” Wittek says one of Dr. Amen’s recommendations has been particularly helpful. “Something you said to me last time stuck with me, and I’ve been using it, and I think it’s really helped me out,” he says. Wittek’s talking about killing the ANTs. He says he’ll hear something that in the past might have gotten him riled up, but now he recognizes the thought is just an ANT. “I don’t waste my energy on something that’s out of my control,” he says. Instead, he takes that energy and tries to use it in a productive way. Feeling better is one thing. Wittek wanted to see if his brain was better too. His follow-up SPECT scans didn’t disappoint. The overactivity in the emotional and anxiety centers of the brain was much calmer, which is associated with less depression and anxiousness. In his frontal lobes, where blood flow was too low on his previous scan, the blood flow had improved, which is linked to better decision-making, judgment, and planning.WITH THE BRAIN, THERE’S ALWAYS ROOM FOR IMPROVEMENT
Even though Wittek’s brain function showed improvement, there is room for further optimization. Wittek admits to a few bad habits that aren’t helping his brain, such as smoking marijuana and boxing. If he can curtail these habits, it will help his brain heal even faster, according to Dr. Amen. The most surprising thing Wittek has experienced in his post-accident journey back to brain health and mental health is how people have reacted to his story. After sharing the truth about his injuries and his efforts to get healthy, he has become a motivational and inspirational figure to people. It’s not something he ever anticipated. In fact, he admits, “I used to make fun of those guys… but it’s given me a purpose.” With a purpose and a plan, brain health is more attainable than ever. And as follow-up brain SPECT scans show, it can happen quickly when you stick to the recommendations. Getting a follow-up SPECT scan can often provide the motivation needed to stay on track and keep improving. Depression, anxiety, head injuries, and other mental health issues can’t wait. At Amen Clinics, we’re here for you. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, clinical evaluations, and therapy for adults, teens, children, and couples. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834 or visit our contact page here. With several states in the U.S. having legalized the medical and recreational uses of marijuana in recent years, many people are relieved, while just as many others continue to warn of its danger. The divisiveness about this topic makes it very difficult to separate facts from myths, despite increasing reports about the benefits of using medical marijuana products to offset symptoms of certain mental or physical health conditions. To help clarify the confusion and as a way to continue opening up the dialogue around the pros and cons of marijuana use, Dr. Rebecca Siegel, a psychiatrist with Amen Clinics New York, has written an engaging and informative book entitled, The Brain on Cannabis: What You Should Know about Recreational and Medical Marijuana. As a certified prescriber of medical marijuana, Dr. Siegel has witnessed the positive response many of her patients have had with it when traditional treatments have failed them. Along with key educational, including that marijuana is made from the dried flowers and leaves of the cannabis sativa plant, Dr. Siegel addresses almost any question the reader might have on this topic. In addition, she includes a captivating look at the historical journey cannabis has made through diverse cultures over the course of human history.The Surprising History of Medical Marijuana
Most people aren’t aware that the medicinal use of cannabis did not evolve with the decriminalization of marijuana in recent years. Rather, this plant and its derivatives have been utilized throughout much of human history. In her book, Dr. Siegel weaves together a fascinating timeline going back 6,000 years when cannabis was known to have been a farm crop. In 2737 B.C., China’s Emperor Shen Neng recognized its efficacy as medicine and permitted it to be used for hundreds of ailments, including malaria, gout, pain, and rheumatism. Eventually, cannabis was utilized in many other cultures as well for a variety of problems, ranging from nausea and coughs to tumors, jaundice, and more. During the 1700s in what is now the U.S., certain health problems were treated with the seeds and roots of the hemp plant. Through the early part of the 1900s, cannabis was medically endorsed for many health issues, including incontinence, inflammation of the skin, and labor pains. Its wide-ranging acceptability was such that it could even be ordered through the Sears, Roebuck, and Co. catalog! Well…that is until the tide turned in response to an increase of opiate and cocaine addictions in the U.S. (both substances were also legal at the time) and the hammer came down as laws changed. Subsequently, the use of cannabis for medicinal or other purposes became a crime. The ensuing hysteria was well characterized in the fear-mongering 1936 film, Reefer Madness, as public attitudes made a dramatic U-turn in the forthcoming decades. The perception became that marijuana use was relegated to hippies and stoners who followed the Grateful Dead.Health Conditions that May Benefit from Medical Marijuana
Now in 2021, while the unflattering stereotype remains in the minds of many, the use of medical marijuana has slowly gained traction again. Clinical experience and ongoing research show promising discoveries about its potential to provide relief of symptoms caused by a variety of health problems. These include:- Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
- Arthritis
- Cancer
- Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting
- Chronic pain and nerve pain
- Epilepsy
- HIV/AIDS
- Huntington’s disease
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Multiple sclerosis
- Parkinson’s disease
- Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Spasticity from spinal cord injury