Cannabis News
Why Are Young Adults So Depressed and Does Cannabis Have Anything to Do With It?
A recent study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders attempts to link rising depression rates among young adults to increased cannabis use, insinuating that legalization is enabling problematic self-medication. However, the authors display shallow reasoning and fail to consider the broader context of why depression is spiking among youth. Their goal seems to be fueling anti-cannabis propaganda, not exploring root causes.
In today’s article it is not my attempt to dissect the study, but to talk about other reasons – besides cannabis, that could be linked to increase depression among young adults.
The study notes increased depression pre-pandemic, especially among young adults. But it hastily credits this to “displacement of in-person social interaction with social media and digital technologies.” While social media overuse can be harmful, the issues depressing youth run far deeper. Not to say it doesn’t play a significant factor in my opinion.
In fact, when you take the dates in the study and correlate with the rise of Social Media – one can argue that the rise in popularity of social media platforms robbed them from the ability to interact with others on a more personal level. Think about it, kids pre-social media were forced to play with each other, have more social interaction – as a result, they moved about more, they were not as depressed.
However, with the rise of social media, kids became more isolated…and in fact, if we take a look at the past and consider the social nature of the human being – there might be something there!
A Fate Worse Than Death
In ancient times, exile was society’s harshest punishment, reserved for only the most heinous offenses. Cut off from one’s people and home, forced to wander alone in the wilderness – this isolated purgatory was considered a fearful fate worse than execution.
Yet today, we increasingly self-impose an emotional exile of sorts via social media. Our virtual personas project enviable lives, edited to perfection. But the comparison breeds anxiety, alienation, even self-loathing. We’ve never been so “connected” yet feel more and more alone.
The irony is crushing – with limitless ability to contact others instantaneously, we’ve forgotten how to meaningfully interact. Social muscles atrophy as we hide behind filtered avatars, chased by metrics of validation.
Loneliness is reaching epidemic scales alongside screen addiction. We yearn for what technology promises yet erodes. For all its conveniences, has progress only estranged us from our true needs – human intimacy, nature, stillness?
Think of the most “successful” influencers who appear to “have it all” online. Their fans number in the millions. Yet under the sheen, many remain deeply unfulfilled, some even taking their own lives.
Is this the disconnected dystopia we’re building – palm trees and paradise filtered over inner wastelands? Perhaps exile of the soul is a fate worse than death.
We must relearn that screens supplement but cannot replace embodied living. The digital sphere offers no balm for hearts starving to belong. Its perfection reflects hollowly in the shadow of life’s beautiful wreckage.
Recovery starts by daring to disconnect regularly, feel uncomfortable offline, let authenticity rise unfiltered. With practice, we remember the divine standard dwells within. Comparison is violence against one’s intrinsic divinity.
Only embracing vulnerability cultivates community. The real connects through cracked masks. I cannot know you without revealing my own sacred wounds as well.
We suffer most separating ourselves – from nature, each other, our wholeness. We cannot ignore the effects of social media on the young mind – who only knows this form of mass social communication. However, it’s not solely the fault of social media.
Crises Fatigue & the never ending cycle of victimhood!
Consider the state of society that millennials entered adulthood into. Endless war, catastrophic climate change, corrupt leaders, unchecked corporate power, and crumbling community. The very foundations of stability and opportunity that older generations benefited from are disintegrating.
Of course chronic stress, hopelessness, and depression result from witnessing our society’s core pillars collapse in real time. Youth are told to work hard, go to college, get married, when current conditions make achieving these milestones increasingly difficult, if not impossible.
Social media does exacerbate isolation and jealousy. But excessive comparison to unrealistic standards is a symptom of a sick culture, not the cause. Young adults are depressed because the world they inherited is objectively bleaker and more desperate than the one their parents enjoyed.
Next, the researchers acknowledge increased cannabis access from legalization, then insinuate this enables problematic “self-medication.” But they ignore how prohibition itself creates conditions prime for self-medication like unsafe products and lack of guidance.
It’s true that more youth now perceive cannabis as beneficial. But ending prohibition demystifies cannabis through education, reasonable regulations, and product standards. The plant’s risks and rewards can finally be discussed honestly. If anything, legalization discourages escapist abuse by fostering healthier relationships with the plant.
We must also consider context when citing increased prevalence rates. As stigma declines, more feel comfortable admitting use on surveys. Legalization simply reveals previously existing demand. And “increased prevalence” does not automatically mean rampant abuse – most jurisdictions report stable moderation even as overall consumer numbers rise.
If the researchers’ concern is youth “self-medicating” without medical supervision, then the solution is obvious – expand professional cannabis therapy access. Legalization is a first step, but barriers around studying and prescribing cannabis remain. Patients deserve clinician guidance in using it responsibly. But for patients.
We actually need to update what “typical consumption” looks like. In previous articles I spoke about how the “scientific threshold for problematic consumption” is far too conservative. The fact of the matter is that when cannabis users have tolerance, they begin to balance their behavior accordingly. They become functional.
Of course, not all people – but certainly the majority of cannabis users are not “problem users” and the majority of them aren’t depressed. The point being that the models being used are not accurate in terms of market expression.
How can we have a fair assessment if the metrics of measurement are not set in accordance to market standards?
The old “correlation causation debate”
Finally, correlation does not equal causation. The authors provide no evidence directly linking increased depression to cannabis use. They simply observe both conditions rising and insinuate connection. But a third factor like society’s downward trajectory better explains these trends.
Does cannabis hold potential to help depression? Absolutely, but careful dosing and mindset are key. Vilifying it without data ignores potential upsides. Demonizing cannabis won’t make the external drivers of desperation disappear.
The stark truth is that unprecedented economic uncertainty, political corruption, environmental catastrophe, and the threat of violence weigh heavily on our youngest generations’ psyches. Their anxiety and despair do not arise from nowhere.
These factors must be acknowledged first and foremost when examining rising mental health challenges. Cannabis is merely one of many coping tools, with proper use determined individually. But a broken system shapes the conditions where coping becomes necessary.
Seeking scapegoats like social media or cannabis glosses over the need for radical societal reforms restoring opportunity, justice and stability. Young adults are sounding alarm bells we desperately need to hear. Exploring this mental health crisis demands nuance, compassion and open minds, not ideological finger pointing. Until core issues are addressed, band-aids will do little. Our times call for deep reflection and bold ideas. Will we rise to meet this historic challenge?
Common Sense
This isn’t to say that cannabis is harmless. Some people may have a problem with cannabis, but painting with broad brushes isn’t helping anyone. In 2019, there were riots on the streets of Hong Kong, companies like Pfizer were paying record fines for corruption, and people everywhere was fed up with the way that “leadership” was running the world.
We’re in a point in time where we’re undergoing a major societal shift. The fact of the matter is that the youth have no idea on what to expect – their leaders are pieces of shit, swindlers who sold them out before they were born.
However, all of this will spark a new wave of thinkers and doers. The dust will settle, a new dawn will rise. Cannabis will reintegrate into society no matter how hard they try to vilify it.
DEPRESSION AND CANNABIS, READ ON…
Is kratom addictive? Discover the potential for dependence on Kratom, the risks involved with its use, and how to approach its consumption responsibly.
From 2011 to 2017, over 1,800 calls to poison centers involved kratom in the U.S. This significant number highlights the concern regarding kratom addiction.
However, without Food and Drug Administration (FDA) oversight, and due to various consumption methods like teas and capsules, there are significant health risks. Safe use of kratom is now in question due to these issues.
Research debates how dependence develops, outlining signs like loss of control and withdrawal symptoms. These signs are seen in regular kratom users. Ironically, some people switch from drugs like heroin to kratom, looking for a legal alternative.
Understanding Kratom: Origins and Prevalence
Kratom comes from the Mitragyna speciosa tree in Southeast Asia. It can act like a stimulant or like opioids, based on how much you take. People use it in different ways, for a small energy boost or stronger effects at higher doses.
The legal status of kratom in the U.S. is complicated and changing. It’s a hot topic because some worry about its misuse. It’s still legal in several states. This shows how different places handle drug rules. The National Institute on Drug Abuse is looking into its medical benefits. But, the FDA hasn’t approved it for medical use yet. The DEA calls it a “drug of concern,” which means policies might change.
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From 2011 to 2017, poison control centers in the U.S. got over 1,800 reports about kratom. This shows it’s widely used and might pose health risks.
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Kratom’s main ingredients bind to opioid receptors very strongly, stronger than morphine even. This fact is key to understanding its effects.
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As more people use kratom, more are reporting serious health problems. These include liver and heart issues, and tough withdrawal symptoms, particularly in those already sick.
The statistics show mounting worries about kratom in the U.S. As its use grows, it’s becoming more important to health policies and laws. What happens next will depend on further research and legal decisions.
Is Kratom Addictive: Investigating the Substance’s Nature
The question of kratom’s addictiveness focuses on how it affects brain receptors and its long-term health implications. The ongoing debate highlights concerns about dependence and the risk of addiction. Scientists are closely looking at these issues.
How Kratom Works in the Brain
Kratom’s main alkaloids, mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, bind to the brain’s opioid receptors, similar to painkillers and narcotics. This connection suggests a potential risk of dependence. These alkaloids are key to kratom’s pain relief but also point to possible addiction concerns, especially with frequent, high-dose usage.
Patterns and Consequences of Long-term Use
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Using kratom often, especially in large doses, can increase the risk of dependence and intense withdrawal symptoms, similar to opioid withdrawal.
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Although some use it for pain or to improve mood, long-term kratom users might see serious health problems, like liver damage and mental health issues.
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Withdrawal symptoms, including irritability, nausea, and sleep problems, show kratom’s impact on one’s physical and mental health.
Assessment of Addiction Risks
Studies indicate a significant risk of addiction to kratom, especially with high doses or frequent use. Dependence develops as the body gets used to kratom, leading to tolerance and a need for more to feel its effects. Withdrawal symptoms emphasize this risk, as highlighted by health experts.
Physiological Effects: Kratom’s Impact on the Body
There is a lot of debate about the safety and use of kratom. This herbal extract comes from the Mitragyna speciosa plant. It has drawn attention for its possible harmful effects on the body. The FDA has issued many warnings about kratom, raising safety concerns.
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Kratom Adverse Effects: Kratom users have reported side effects like nausea, vomiting, and confusion. More serious issues include high blood pressure and liver damage. These problems highlight the risks of using kratom.
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Herbal Extract Safety: Some kratom products contain heavy metals and pathogens. These can cause severe health issues, including death. This shows the importance of safety in herbal products.
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FDA Warnings and Regulations: The FDA has linked kratom to over 35 deaths and warns against using it. They point out the lack of medical uses and the risk of addiction.
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Physiological Impact: Kratom’s effects depend on the dose and the user’s body. Yet, it can lead to dangerous outcomes like liver damage and seizures.
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Safety Concerns from Authorities: Federal agencies like the DEA are worried about kratom’s safety. Although not a controlled substance, monitoring suggests users should be careful.
Kratom might offer temporary relief for some ailments, but it comes with significant risks. The FDA’s warnings should make people think twice. If considering kratom, it’s crucial to talk to a doctor first. Experts stress the need for safety and caution with herbal extracts.
Conclusion
Kratom’s role in health and regulation is complex, with views and research findings widely varied. Some people use kratom for its claimed health benefits, but it’s a hot topic. Experts advise caution and suggest consulting a doctor before using kratom due to the unclear effects.
Clinical studies using scores like SOWS and COWS haven’t confirmed withdrawal symptoms from kratom. This adds to the debate, especially when some users report withdrawal. This makes kratom a controversial subject among different findings and user experiences.
When it comes to treating opioid addiction, kratom can be both helpful and harmful. Some have used it successfully to fight addiction. Yet, some states have banned it. This highlights the need for regulations and consistent product quality. It also raises questions about kratom’s legal status due to mixed actions by authorities.
The situation shows how complex kratom is in the realm of substance use and law. Without clear evidence supporting either its benefits or risks, it poses a challenge. More research is needed to guide regulations and health advice. For now, anyone thinking of using kratom should be careful, seek medical advice, and keep up with laws and health guidelines.
WHAT IS KRATOM ANYWAY? READ ON…
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As the popularity of CBD (cannabidiol) continues to rise, many pet owners are exploring its potential benefits for their furry companions. CBD is derived from the hemp plant and is known for its therapeutic properties, which may help alleviate anxiety, pain, inflammation, and other health issues in dogs. However, when considering CBD treats for your dog, it’s crucial to understand the ingredients that go into these products. This article will delve into the essential ingredients to look for in CBD treats, their benefits, potential risks, and how to choose the right product for your canine friend.
Understanding CBD and Its Benefits for Dogs
Before we dive into the ingredients, it’s important to understand what CBD is and how it can benefit dogs. CBD is a non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis plants. Unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which can produce a “high,” CBD does not have intoxicating effects. Instead, it interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in both humans and animals, which plays a crucial role in regulating various physiological processes.
Potential Benefits of CBD for Dogs
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Anxiety Relief: Many dogs experience anxiety due to various factors such as loud noises, separation from their owners, or changes in their environment. CBD may help reduce anxiety levels by promoting a sense of calm.
Choosing the Right CBD Treats
When selecting CBD treats for your dog, it’s essential to look beyond just the CBD content. The overall quality of the treat is equally important. Here are some key ingredients you should be aware of:
1. High-Quality CBD Oil
The foundation of any good CBD treat is the quality of the CBD oil used. Look for treats that contain:
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Full-Spectrum or Broad-Spectrum CBD: Full-spectrum products contain all cannabinoids found in the hemp plant, including trace amounts of THC (below 0.3% as per legal standards). Broad-spectrum products contain multiple cannabinoids but no THC. Both types can provide an “entourage effect,” enhancing the therapeutic benefits.
2. Natural Ingredients
Just like human food, the ingredients in your dog’s treats matter significantly. Look for treats made with natural ingredients rather than artificial additives or preservatives. Here are some beneficial components:
Whole grains like oat flour or brown rice flour provide essential nutrients and fiber that support digestive health. They are also a good source of energy for active dogs.
Healthy fats are vital for maintaining your dog’s coat and skin health. Ingredients like coconut oil or peanut butter not only enhance flavor but also provide beneficial fatty acids that support overall well-being.
Incorporating fruits and vegetables into your dog’s treats can boost their nutritional value:
To make treats more appealing without resorting to artificial flavors, look for natural flavorings like chicken broth or carob (a chocolate substitute safe for dogs). These ingredients can enhance taste while keeping the treat healthy.
3. Functional Ingredients
Some treats may include additional functional ingredients designed to address specific health concerns:
These compounds are often included in joint support treats to help maintain joint health and mobility, especially in older dogs or those with arthritis.
Probiotics can promote gut health by supporting a healthy balance of bacteria in your dog’s digestive system.
Certain herbs like chamomile or ginger may offer calming effects or aid digestion. Always ensure these herbs are safe for canine consumption before choosing treats containing them.
Ingredients to Avoid
While there are many beneficial ingredients to seek out, it’s equally important to know which ones to avoid:
1. Artificial Additives
Many commercial pet treats contain artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives that can be harmful to your dog’s health. These additives may lead to allergic reactions or other health issues over time.
2. High Sugar Content
Just like humans, dogs do not need excessive sugar in their diets. Treats high in sugar can lead to obesity and dental problems.
3. Low-Quality Fillers
Avoid treats with low-quality fillers such as corn syrup or by-products that do not provide any nutritional value.
Always ensure that any CBD product you choose contains less than 0.3% THC to avoid any psychoactive effects on your dog.
How to Introduce CBD Treats Safely
When introducing any new treat into your dog’s diet—especially one containing CBD—it’s essential to do so gradually:
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Start Small: Begin with a small amount of the treat to see how your dog reacts.
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Monitor Your Dog: Observe your dog for any adverse reactions such as changes in behavior or gastrointestinal upset.
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Adjust Dosage as Needed: Depending on your dog’s size and needs, you may need to adjust the dosage over time.
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Consult Your Veterinarian: Before starting any new supplement regimen, including CBD treats, consult with your veterinarian—especially if your dog has existing health conditions or is taking other medications.
Conclusion
CBD treats can be a beneficial addition to your dog’s diet when chosen carefully with attention to ingredient quality and safety. By understanding what goes into these treats—such as high-quality CBD oil, natural ingredients, functional additives—and knowing what to avoid, you can make informed decisions that support your dog’s health and well-being.
Always prioritize transparency from manufacturers regarding ingredient sourcing and product testing; this will ensure you’re providing your furry friend with safe and effective options tailored to their needs. With proper research and guidance from a veterinarian, you can confidently explore the potential benefits of CBD treats for your beloved pet while ensuring they enjoy a tasty snack that’s good for them too!
CBD OIL FOR DOGS, READ ON…
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