With the impending legalization of cannabis in Germany, the discussion about the health consequences is being reignited. The focus is particularly on the psychological effects of cannabis consumption, a topic that is brought to the fore again in an interview with Prof. Bernhard Baune, Director of the Clinic for Mental Health at the University Hospital of Münster. Baune emphasizes the duality of weed - on the one hand as a means of decriminalization and potential medical benefits, on the other hand as a risk to mental health, particularly in relation to the induction of psychosis.
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Psychological risks of cannabis use
Prof. Baune emphasizes that weed can be harmful to health regardless of the dose, with side effects such as nausea, vomiting, rapid heartbeat and fluctuations in blood pressure. What should be emphasized is the risk for people who are already mentally ill or have an increased risk of developing a mental illness. The German Society for Psychiatry and Psychotherapy (DGPPN) warns of the risk of cannabis consumption triggering psychoses, which particularly affects young people. The brain development period between the ages of 14 and 25 is particularly vulnerable to the development of mental illnesses, so consumption before the age of 25 is particularly risky.
Risks for young consumers
The development of mental illness in adolescence highlights the need for caution when approaching cannabis use. Baune advises young people in particular to be careful and recommends not consuming weed before the age of 25 to minimize the risk of psychological side effects. Signs to reconsider consumption and seek medical help include changes in perception such as feeling like you are being followed or having paranoid thoughts.
Effects on everyday clinical practice
Legalization will not change anything for medical cannabis, which has been available by prescription in Germany since 2017. It remains a tool for the treatment of serious chronic or painful diseases under strict medical conditions. But Baune points out that larger studies show that legalization could lead to an increase in psychosis, particularly among young people, who may now be more willing to try weed.
Comparison with other countries
The legalization of weed in various countries around the world offers a wide range of experiences from which Germany can learn. Countries such as Canada and Uruguay, as well as several US states where cannabis has already been legalized, experience varying social and public health impacts. In Canada, where cannabis has been legal since 2018, researchers have observed an increase in public acceptance without a significant increase in youth use rates.
However, studies report an increase in hospitalizations due to cannabis-induced psychosis, highlighting the importance of education and prevention measures. In the US, the situation varies by state, with some areas seeing a decrease in opioid overdoses, suggesting a possible substitution effect of cannabis. These mixed results underscore the complexity of legalizing weed and the need to carefully monitor both the positive and negative effects. Germany therefore faces the challenge of learning from the experiences of other countries in order to develop balanced policies that maximize benefits and minimize risks, particularly for mental health.
Questions and answers about the legalization of cannabis
Question 1: What advantages does Prof. Baune see in the legalization of cannabis?
Answer 1: He sees advantages in decriminalization and in certain medical areas.
Question 2: Who is particularly at risk from cannabis use?
Answer 2: People with mental illness or at high risk of mental illness.
Question 3: At what age is cannabis consumption less risky?
Answer 3: After the age of 25, as the brain is then largely developed.
Question 4: What should parents do if they suspect psychological side effects?
Answer 4: Seek help and seek medical advice.
Question 5: What impact does legalization have on medical cannabis use?
Answer 5: There are no direct effects; Medical cannabis remains strictly regulated.
Conclusion
The impending legalization of weed in Germany raises important questions about mental health. While offering opportunities in medicine and decriminalization, Prof. Baune emphasizes the need to be aware of the possible risks, particularly for young people and those with existing mental illnesses. An informed and prudent approach is crucial to reap the benefits and minimize the risks. Given the complex impact on mental health and clinical practice, ongoing assessment and adjustment of cannabis policy remains essential.
Source: German health portal
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Notes:
1) This content reflects the current state of affairs at the time of publication. The reproduction of individual images, screenshots, embeds or video sequences serves to discuss the topic. 2) Individual contributions were created through the use of machine assistance and were carefully checked by the Mimikama editorial team before publication. ( Reason )