ClearlyWell Podcast Short Sesh 4/Mary

In todays super short sesh, we hash out a touchy subject on Marijuana. The concept of marijuana as a "gateway drug" is debated, with arguments on both sides, so let's dive into the pros and cons of this perspective: Potential Path to Harder Substances: Some research suggests that early marijuana use, particularly in adolescents, may increase the likelihood of experimenting with more harmful drugs later, such as opioids or stimulants.Behavioral Reinforcement: For some individuals, marijuana use might lower inhibitions or normalize drug-seeking behaviors, making it easier to transition to other drugs.Biological Susceptibility: Marijuana can influence brain chemistry, especially in young people, making the brain more susceptible to other drugs.Social Environment: Marijuana use may expose users to social environments where other, harder substances are present, increasing the likelihood of encountering and potentially using them. Correlation, Not Causation: Many experts argue that marijuana doesn’t cause someone to use harder drugs, but that underlying factors like genetics, social environment, and mental health play a larger role in the progression of substance use.Relative Safety Profile: Compared to other drugs, marijuana has a relatively low risk of overdose and physical dependence, which means that for some, it serves as an endpoint rather than a gateway.