If you’ve been on the fence about trying cannabis, you’re not alone.
There are so many myths surrounding cannabis that it can be hard to know where to start.
From “pot will kill your brain cells” to “marijuana will make you lazy and unmotivated,” let’s take a closer look at some of the most common myths and separate fact from fiction.
This blog post will discuss the facts surrounding cannabis and dispel some of the most common myths.
Let’s get started by exploring some of the common myths about cannabis and why they don’t hold true.
Myth #1: Cannabis is Addictive
This is one of the most widely-held misunderstandings about cannabis.
There is no physical dependency on cannabis like there is with substances such as alcohol or opioids, so it cannot be classified as an addictive drug in a medical sense.
In fact, studies have shown that those who use cannabis do not experience withdrawal symptoms when they stop using it.
That being said, if you find yourself using more frequently than you would like or feel compelled to use it even when you don’t want to, that can be a sign of dependence or addiction and should be addressed accordingly.
Myth #2: Cannabis Lowers Your IQ
The idea that smoking marijuana causes lower IQ scores has been circulating for decades, but recent studies have shown this to not be true.
A recent study conducted by researchers at Duke University followed 1,037 people from birth to age 38 and found no evidence that marijuana had any effect on their IQ scores.
While this study did show that heavy use of marijuana did result in lower average scores on certain cognitive tests, these effects were reversible once the person stopped using marijuana.
Therefore, while it may temporarily affect your cognitive abilities while under the influence, long-term use of marijuana does not cause permanent damage to your IQ score.
Myth #3: Smoking Marijuana Will Lead To Other Drugs
This myth has been perpetuated by anti-drug campaigns for decades but research shows that this simply isn’t true.
In fact, studies have shown that those who smoke marijuana are less likely to start using other drugs than those who never smoked marijuana before.
It is important to note however that correlation does not necessarily equal causation; just because two things appear related does not mean one caused the other—it could just be coincidence!
That being said, the evidence suggests that marijuana itself does not lead people towards trying harder drugs such as cocaine or heroin.
Myth #4: Marijuana Makes You Lazy and Unmotivated
This myth is often perpetuated in movies and TV shows, but there is no scientific evidence to back up this claim either.
While marijuana can cause temporary changes in focus and concentration—just like coffee or alcohol— it doesn't make users permanently lazy or unmotivated.
In fact, many people find that using cannabis helps them become more productive, as it can help reduce anxiety and stress levels which can sometimes interfere with productivity.
Myth #5: Cannabis Causes Mental Illness
Also false! There have been numerous studies conducted on this topic and they have all come to the same conclusion—there is no link between cannabis use and mental illness.
In fact, many people use cannabis to help manage their anxiety and depression.
That being said, if you are predisposed to mental illness then using any substance can increase your risk of experiencing negative side effects.
As always, consult your doctor before using any kind of substance.
Myth #6: Cannabis Impairs Long-Term Cognitive Ability
This one isn't entirely true either!
While short-term impairment does occur after consuming high doses of THC (the chemical compound in marijuana responsible for its psychoactive effects), these effects are usually temporary and dissipate within a few hours after consumption.
Long-term effects on cognitive ability have yet to be observed in any scientific study and further research is needed before we can draw any conclusions on this topic.
At the end of the day, it's important to do your own research before using any type of substance—including cannabis!
Don't let myths and misconceptions keep you away from something that could potentially benefit you greatly.
Remember—it's always best to speak with a medical professional if you're considering trying out cannabis for yourself so that they can guide you in making the best decision for your health and wellbeing.
And don't forget—have fun exploring what life has to offer!
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