Quote:
Originally Posted by SamirBam
Hey guys, im 20 and i have social anxiety, self esteem problems and depression. For about 9 months i was smoking weed everyday and it kind of seemed to cure my insecurities but now even the weed doesnt help. Now it feels like my insecurities double or triple after i smoke weed. I feel empty inside, i dont find anything or anyone intresting, i cant connect with anyone...and i dont know what my problem is. My friends arent affected badly by weed they seem happy while im crippled with depression.
What do you guys feel about weed? Does weed cause depression? Is it best to quit or just smoke once in a while?
|
Hello SamirBam. I am so sorry that you're struggling. You raised an important issue. Weed cannot "cure" insecurities. The antidote to insecurity is to strengthen and honor the Self. The weed was simply masking your insecurities for a while...in the same way some people feel braver ("Dutch courage") when they drink alcohol. Alcohol didn't change their persona or sense of self...it simply acted on their frontal lobes...temporarily diminishing their impulse control and inhibitions. Ask someone how they feel the next morning after a heavy night of drinking...not so good...alcohol is actually a depressant though legal. And we know a LOT more about alcohol's effects on our brains compared to weed. Weed just hasn't been researched as much as alcohol.
There is neurological research indicating that weed (like alcohol and other drugs) can have damaging effects on the brain. Particularly with extended and habitual use. Unfortunately, a lot of people think weed is harmless when this is not the case. Weed does have certain helpful uses for cancer patients and folks who are terminally ill. However, you don't not fall into those categories and it sounds like you were trying to use it to deal with anxiety and depression. I recommend discontinuing the weed and talking to your doctor for a referral to a therapist who specializes in anxiety and depression.
In the meantime, when you are feeling empty or anxious, try some guided meditation on YouTube. I do that myself. "Guided meditation for feeling empty" etc
There is hope here! You figured out what is not working for you. And you are young...a 20 year old brain can respond very well to a new approach. You may be interested to read about the 'plasticity' of the brain.
Please seriously consider ending your weed use and avoid alcohol or any other recreational substances. Remember that your brain has now been exposed to weed for quite a while so please give it time to catch up to a new period without weed. It can catch up but it takes time.
I wish you healing, peace, and a bright future. Breathe slowly and deeply and please seek some professional help.