preview

Consumption Of Marijuana And Its Symptoms

Good Essays

Depression is currently the number one mental disorder in the world, as well as one of the leading causes of years lived with disability (Hales & Lauzon, pp.58, 2012). It does not only alter the way you think but it also alters the way you feel, your social behavior and your physical wellness (Hales & Lauzon, 2012). According to Hales and Lauzon (pp. 58 – 59, 2012), the onset age for depression is during adolescence. In Canada, 8% adults will experience depression and 15% – 40% of college students who are at the age of 18 – 24 are likely to suffer depression (Hales & Lauzon, pp.58 – 59, 2012). As someone who has suffered through depression, this topic piques my interest. It reminds me of a myth prevalent in modern day society: consumption of marijuana decreases depression symptoms. In this research essay, I will begin by defining depression and its symptoms. Then, I will evaluate whether consumption of marijuana has a positive or a negative effect on depression. I will conclude by explaining why I am of the conviction that consumption of marijuana is an unsuitable method of treatment, and present other available alternatives that are better than the risking the side effects of marijuana. Hales and Lauzon (pp.453, 2012) describe depression as “feeling of unhappiness and despair”. DSM-IV sets out some criteria for depression: i) the first criteria is “depressed mood or a loss of interest or pleasure in daily activities for more than two weeks”, ii) the second criteria is “a

Get Access