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marijuana and obsessive thoughts?

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July 24th, 2011
Can marijuana cause an individual to loose his mind? I have smoked it in the past and thought I was losing my mind while I was on the drug due to obsessive thoughts. I have an obsession with the fear of the the thought that I will develop schizophrenia at some point in my life. None of my family has a history of schizo and I do not experience any symptoms of the disease. Is my obsession a valid concern? I want to start smoking marijuana again but fear it will heighten my obsessive thoughts.
Also, I am going through a dental procedure and will be prescribed obvious mind altering drugs. Once again, I fear taking them because of my obsessive fear of loosing reality. Is this a valid concern?

I have a past history of depression/anxiety. I have not had any serious recent episodes and have not taken the medication for years.

I believe my mother also has a history of depression/anxiety.


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replied July 28th, 2011
Mental Conditions Answer A25524
Hi,

Welcome to the ehealthforum and I am glad to help you out.

it is true that marijuana has effects on the CNS (central nervous system) and cause euphoria, increased sensations of sight, hearing, and taste and relaxed feeling. It can also cause decreased ability to perform tasks that require a lot of coordination and decreased interest in completing tasks but it does not cause dementia or losing one's mind.

What you are having is anxiety disorder. My suggestion is to consult a good psychiatrist and get the diagnosis confirmed as treatment can be started only when the diagnosis is confirmed. Once you start the medication, it is important not to stop taking it abruptly and dose tapering may be needed. You may need anti anxiety medicines like SSRI’s (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) and benzodiazepines.

Also try making some lifestyle changes. You can share your worries or stress with your family and friends and they can help you out by giving valid reasons or solutions. Also start doing yoga or meditation exercises which help in having a calming effect on the mind.

I sincerely hope this information helps. Take care.


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