I was a college freshman living in a small apartment off Gee Street with two roommates when I smoked my first joint. I remember sinking into a bean bag in the living room and staring up at a rotating disco ball on the ceiling. The only effects I recall were a huge appetite, uncontrollable laughter, and a lot of sleep.
Marijuana today differs in several important ways from the marijuana of my youth. Back then, people sometimes mixed it with sage, but today it may be contaminated with far more dangerous substances. Medical regulation has helped reduce some of that risk. At the same time, marijuana has become much more potent. According to [Mel Pohl, M.D.](), THC levels in cannabis products have risen sharply over time, and some concentrates now contain extremely high concentrations. Recent public health research also shows that as marijuana has become more normalized and accessible, use has increased, along with the number of people experiencing cannabis withdrawal symptoms when they try to quit. Since legalization in much of the United States potency has skyrocketed, addictions have increased, and mental health issues have greatly worsened.
This trend is especially concerning for adolescents and young adults, whose brains are still developing and who may face greater risks of substance use and mental health problems ([Kelly C. Young-Wolff](), [Catherine A. Cortez](), [Stacey E. Alexeeff]() et al., JAMA Health Forum, 2026). Brain changes during adolescence and childhood can be lasting and may interfere with full development. Parents who use cannabis can also put children at risk. In this area, toddlers have been taken to emergency rooms after ingesting cannabis gummies, in some cases nearly dying. Young children have also brought their parents’ cannabis to school.
Recent research highlights the risks of frequent cannabis use. Heavy use is associated with both short- and long-term anxiety and depression, and daily use increases the risk of psychosis fivefold. It is also not recommended for people with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and has a strong association with suicide. Other risks include cardiovascular events such as stroke and heart attack, as well as an increased risk of cancer. High-potency concentrates and the unpredictable dosing of edibles further raise the risk of overdose, psychosis, and dependence (Leung et al., 2020).
Research on the benefits of cannabis is still evolving and has been limited in part by legal restrictions. Some studies suggest that cannabis may modestly reduce pain in people with conditions such as nerve damage, arthritis, and multiple sclerosis. It may also help relieve chemotherapy-related nausea, ease some symptoms of multiple sclerosis, and stimulate appetite in people experiencing severe weight loss related to HIV/AIDS.
Current evidence does not strongly support the use of THC for anxiety, insomnia, or chronic pain. Some people may experience reduced anxiety or depression at low doses, and short-term use may help with sleep. Researchers are also studying whether cannabinoids may protect nerve cells in conditions such as Parkinson’s disease and ALS, but the evidence remains limited.
Although cannabis may offer medical benefits in some cases, it should be used with caution and under appropriate guidance. Heavy use can be harmful and may increase the risk of anxiety, psychosis, and depression. While low doses may help relieve certain symptoms, cannabis can be addictive, and stopping use may require medical support. It may help manage symptoms, but it does not cure the underlying disease.
What counts as heavy cannabis use? Daily use, including one joint a day, is often considered heavy use. Medical marijuana can have legitimate uses when it is prescribed and monitored, but like alcohol or any other substance, it can be harmful when used without careful medical guidance.
Hope to see you soon on your journey to wellness.
