Those who defend the use of marijuana to help themselves stop drinking argue that the use of marijuana is much less hazardous to their health than alcohol. The use of marijuana as a substitute for drinking alcohol, though, does have its own drawbacks, as is illustrated in this email from Justin C., a visitor to the Alcoholism/Substance Abuse About.com site.
Justin's Story
I am an alcoholic and drug addict and have been clean and sober since December 21, 2007.I had six years sober in AA prior to this; however, I had an episode of marijuana [induced] psychosis that led me back to the bottle after six years. You see, I had been on the marijuana maintenance program.
It finally got me after six years: after picking up a drink, I fought for a year to put it down again. I finally went through a treatment center. I have now been clean and sober seven months and am back at work. I am a social worker by profession.
My doctor tells me that my use of cannabis contributed largely to my mental health problems. I thought that because I had been off the booze for six years that I was OK. I was wrong.
— Justin C.
The Dangers of Marijuana Maintenance
Although the use of marijuana may indeed be less hazardous than heavy drinking — especially to someone who has been drinking excessively for a long period of time — smoking pot comes with its own set of negative effects and consequences:- In most jurisdictions, the possession and use of marijuana is illegal.
- According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, marijuana can contribute to mental health problems.
- Use of marijuana can also have long-term effects on the health of regular users.
- Smoking marijuana can affect the user's learning and social skills.
- Long-term marijuana use can affect a smoker's memory and speed of thinking.
Source:
National Institute on Drug Abuse. "NIDA InfoFacts: Marijuana." June 2008.
