Cannabis and Mental Well-being: A Personal Journey
My journey with cannabis began when I turned 16, and I sought it as a means to manage my emotions and personality traits. It wasn't until I was 24 that the habit became daily, and at 25, a mental episode prompted a diagnosis of Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD). Cannabis didn’t steal my emotions; rather, it provided a manageable framework for my feelings, making it easier to navigate through the day.
Managing Emotions and Cannabis
When I am without cannabis, I experience a variety of negative emotions such as grumpiness, suicidal thoughts, and verbal aggression. These feelings dictate my typical day. However, after a period of abstinence, particularly during a tolerance break, I revert to an emotional state that is far more 'normal' for me. This 'normal' is vastly different from the emotional equilibrium of others who might not rely on cannabis for regulation.
The Role of Strain and Dosage in Personal Experiences
Strain and dosage play a significant role in how cannabis affects each individual. For someone like me, who is shy and introverted, finding the right strain is crucial. Initially, I struggled with high THC potency, experiencing panic and reduced verbal communication after a single hit. However, switching to low THC strains was a game changer. After a few weeks, I gradually increased my dosage and was eventually able to enjoy a wider variety of cannabis without significant drawbacks.
Long-term Effects and Recommendations
It is clear that cannabis can have profound effects on personality and emotional regulation, especially when used long-term. However, this does not imply that it numbs emotions permanently. My experiences indicate that a prolonged break from cannabis can help one regain emotional control and personality traits that may have been altered by regular use. It is important to ensure a balanced approach to cannabis use, avoiding excessive daily consumption and gradually decreasing the frequency and dosage as needed.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
The relationship between cannabis and mental well-being is complex and highly individualized. While cannabis can be a helpful tool for managing certain emotions and conditions, it is crucial to consider personal and professional guidance when navigating its use. Taking breaks and adjusting strains can significantly impact how cannabis affects your life, allowing for a healthier and more resilient approach to its use.