Cannabis is one of the most widely used drugs in South Africa, with many individuals enjoying the relaxing effects of marijuana. However, with this widespread use comes the question of whether cannabis is addictive. While some argue that marijuana is not addictive, others believe that addiction to marijuana is a very real concern. In this section, we will explore the concept of addiction to cannabis and delve into the potential for cannabis dependency.
Firstly, it is important to understand what we mean by addiction to marijuana. Addiction refers to a psychological and physical dependence on a substance, leading to continued use despite negative consequences. Cannabis dependency, on the other hand, refers to a reliance on marijuana to function normally. While some individuals may use cannabis recreationally without developing an addiction or dependency, others may struggle with problematic use that leads to addiction.
Research has shown that frequent and prolonged use of marijuana can lead to changes in the brain that contribute to addiction. This is because the active ingredient in marijuana, THC, affects the reward center of the brain, leading to a pleasurable sensation that can become addictive over time. In addition, individuals who use marijuana to cope with stress or trauma may be more likely to develop an addiction to the drug.
