Medical Marijuana For Schizophrenia in Canada
When someone has schizophrenia, it could be difficult for them to differentiate reality vs. hallucinations. Schizophrenia is a chronic brain disorder that affects the way someone acts, thinks, expresses themselves, and perceives reality. It might often lead to issues with school, work and relationships, and unfortunately, it’s a lifelong disease. But, there are ways to help treat this disorder and be able to live more comfortably and confidently.
What Causes Schizophrenia?
The cause still remains unknown, but researchers know it starts in the brain. Changes occur in dopamine levels, serotonin levels and the neurotransmitters, but there are several other regions that may be affected too. Unfortunately, there is still no cure, and the disorder will require lifelong treatment.
Early Schizophrenia Symptoms
Symptoms could begin in the teenage years, although it may be harder to diagnose because the symptoms might be quite similar to other conditions, but they include:
- A poor change in grades
- Difficulty paying attention/concentrating
- Lack of motivation
- Anxiety
- Distancing themselves from friends and family
- Mood swings – irritability, anger outbursts, depression, etc.
- Change in speech – sentences don’t make sense
- Suicidal thoughts
- Complaints about hallucinations
- Feelings of “being watched”
Symptoms in adults between 20 and 30 are pretty similar, but other warning signs could include:
- Lack of personal hygiene
- Unable to express emotions adequately – happiness, excitement, sadness, etc.
- Both insomnia and sleeping too much
Repeating words or sentences over and over again
“Blank” stares
Delusions and hallucinations
And more.
How Might Medical Marijuana Help Relieve Schizophrenia Symptoms?
Pharmaceutical medications could often cause more side effects like dizziness, fatigue, or even loss of appetite. In contrast, medical marijuana could drastically improve one’s mood, relax the body, and help patients maintain their weight.
The most common symptom people with schizophrenia struggle with is hallucinations, and they often lose touch with reality. In a study done in London, England, at London’s Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, 88 schizophrenic patients were treated with CBD over six weeks, and their psychosis symptoms significantly improved.