Can Smoking Weed Make You Depressed?

Munira Electricwala

Psychologist | Researcher | Psychological Scientist | Writer

30 Sep 20244 min read

Cannabis marijuana leaf closeup - Can Smoking Weed Make You Depressed?

Introduction: Can Smoking Weed Cause Depression?

The relationship between cannabis use and mental health has sparked significant debate, especially concerning its potential link to depression. As more individuals explore cannabis for recreational or medicinal purposes, understanding its psychological effects becomes crucial. This article delves into whether smoking weed can make you depressed, highlighting the complexity of this relationship and the varying evidence surrounding it.

Understanding Weed and Depression by Definition

Weed: Commonly referred to as marijuana or cannabis, weed is a psychoactive substance derived from the Cannabis sativa plant, often used for its euphoric effects.

Depression: Depression is a mental health disorder characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, loss of interest, and a range of emotional and physical problems that can affect daily functioning.

Can Weed Cause Depression?

The question of whether smoking weed can cause depression is not straightforward. Research indicates a complex interplay between cannabis use and depressive symptoms, suggesting that while there may be a correlation, causation is not straightforward.

Regular cannabis use has been linked to an increased risk of anxiety, depression, and psychosis. While more research focuses on the connection between cannabis and psychosis, studies indicate that consistent cannabis use may increase the likelihood of developing mental health conditions like schizophrenia.

Present Research Findings on the Connection Between Weed and Depression

Studies Suggest: That regular cannabis use may increase the risk of developing depression. For instance, a 2014 review concluded that using cannabis places individuals at moderate risk for depression, particularly among heavy users who began using at an early age.

Bidirectional Relationship: Evidence (2016) suggests a bidirectional relationship where cannabis use can lead to depression, while those with depression may be more likely to use cannabis as a coping mechanism.

Impact of THC Levels: Higher tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) levels in cannabis are associated with increased adverse psychiatric effects, including depression. Conversely, some studies suggest that lower doses might have different effects.

Demographic Variations: Research (2017) shows that young adults and those with pre-existing mental health issues are particularly vulnerable to the negative effects of cannabis on mood disorders.

Social Factors: Cannabis use often correlates with social issues such as unemployment or school dropout rates, which may contribute to depressive symptoms rather than cannabis itself causing them.

Symptoms of Depression to check. This will help you understand when to seek help:

Emotional Symptoms

Persistent Sadness: A continuous feeling of sadness or emptiness.
⁠Irritability: Increased frustration or anger over minor issues.
Feelings of Hopelessness: A belief that things will never get better.
⁠Guilt or Worthlessness: Excessive feelings of guilt or a sense of being a failure.

Physical Symptoms

Changes in Appetite: Significant weight loss or gain, or changes in eating habits.
Sleep Disturbances: Insomnia or sleeping too much.
Fatigue: A constant feeling of tiredness or lack of energy.
⁠Aches and Pains: Unexplained physical symptoms, such as headaches or digestive issues.

Cognitive Symptoms

⁠Difficulty Concentrating: Trouble focusing, making decisions, or remembering things.
Negative Thinking: A tendency to dwell on negative thoughts or events.

Behavioural Symptoms

⁠Withdrawal from Social Activities: Avoiding friends, family, and previously enjoyed activities.
⁠Decreased Performance: A decline in work or academic performance.

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues related to cannabis use, seeking professional advice is essential for exploring the best options tailored to individual needs. Mave Health offers personalized support programs and resources on tDCS designed to address these complex issues.

Do Read More About Depression

Conclusion

The relationship between cannabis and depression is intricate and influenced by various factors including dosage, frequency of use, individual mental health history, and social circumstances. While some evidence suggests that consuming weed can lead to depressive symptoms, it is equally important to recognize that individuals suffering from depression may turn to cannabis for relief. In navigating this complex landscape, individuals must consult healthcare providers for personalized guidance regarding their mental health and substance use. Understanding the potential mental health impact of marijuana requires careful consideration of both personal circumstances and broader social factors.

References

Cuttler, C., Spradlin, A., & McLaughlin, R. J. (2018). A naturalistic examination of the perceived effects of cannabis on negative affect. Journal of Affective Disorders, 235, 198–205. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jad.2018.04.054

Does cannabis cause mental illness? (n.d.). UNSW Sites. https://ndarc.med.unsw.edu.au/blog/does-cannabis-cause-mental-illness

Electricwala, M. (2024c, August 28). Cannabis and Mental Health: How Weed [Marijuana] Affects Your Mental Health? Mave Health. Retrieved September 23, 2024, from https://www.mavehealth.com/blogs/how-cannabis-marijuana-affects-your-mental-health

HealthMatch staff & HealthMatch Pty Ltd. (2023, February 17). Weed and depression: Does weed make depression worse? HealthMatch. https://healthmatch.io/depression/does-weed-cause-depression
Marijuana and depression: What’s the link? (2018c, December 4). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/expert-answers/marijuana-and-depression/faq-20058060
National Academies Press (US). (2017, January 12). Mental Health. The Health Effects of Cannabis and Cannabinoids - NCBI Bookshelf. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK425748/
Pacheco-Colón, I., Ramirez, A. R., & Gonzalez, R. (2019). Effects of Adolescent Cannabis Use on Motivation and Depression: a Systematic Review. Current Addiction Reports, 6(4), 532–546. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40429-019-00274-y
Womack, S. R., Shaw, D. S., Weaver, C. M., & Forbes, E. E. (2016). Bidirectional Associations Between Cannabis Use and Depressive Symptoms From Adolescence Through Early Adulthood Among At-Risk Young Men. Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs, 77(2), 287–297. https://doi.org/10.15288/jsad.2016.77.287
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