Key Points at a Glance

• The use of cannabis or other drugs can affect physical and mental health.
• Not everyone develops an addiction, but there is still a risk, especially with regular use.
• People often use drugs to cope with stress, pressure, or unpleasant feelings in the short term.
• Taking a conscious look at one’s own motivations for consumption can help identify risks early on.
• Anyone who is concerned about their own consumption should not hesitate to seek help.

People use drugs for a wide variety of reasons. Some people are curious to try something new, while others see substance use as part of shared activities. Still others hope that this will help them relieve stress, forget their worries, or block out unpleasant feelings for a while.

In the short term, certain substances can indeed be perceived as relaxing or mood-enhancing. However, this effect does not last permanently and usually does not resolve the underlying problems.

That’s why it’s worth consciously questioning your own reasons for consumption time and again.

Cannabis – Between Social Acceptance and Personal Risks

Cannabis is discussed more openly today than it was a few years ago. Regardless of the legal regulations, however, the following applies: Cannabis can also carry risks.

Regular use can affect, among other things, concentration, memory, motivation, and reaction time. The risks may increase, particularly with frequent use or when use begins at an early age. People with a history of mental illness or a predisposition to it should also be especially vigilant.

Not everyone develops an addiction. Nevertheless, consumption can gradually become a fixed habit.

Other drugs also carry risks

In addition to cannabis, there are numerous other illegal drugs, the effects and risks of which vary widely. What they have in common is that they can influence perception, thought, or behavior.

Depending on the substance, there is a risk of physical and psychological consequences, as well as an increased potential for addiction. In addition, the composition and purity of illegal drugs are often unknown. As a result, it is difficult to reliably assess the effects and risks.

For this reason, any consumption carries health risks.

Take Warning Signs Seriously

Not every instance of occasional use leads to addiction. Nevertheless, there are changes that should be noted.

You may notice that drug use has become more frequent, or that the person is using drugs specifically to cope with stress, loneliness, or other difficulties. It may be difficult to give up certain habits, or other interests may take a back seat.

Even if your family, friendships, or career are suffering as a result of your consumption, it’s worth taking an honest look at your own situation.

Recognizing warning signs early on makes it possible to make changes in time.

Finding Other Ways to Cope with Stress

If drugs are used primarily to suppress unpleasant feelings or cope with stress, it may be helpful to look for other strategies.

Exercise, talking with people you trust, relaxation techniques, or creative activities can help you manage stress in a healthy way. What works best varies from person to person.

The key is to find ways that are beneficial in the long run and strengthen your own resources.

Support is available at any time

If you’re concerned about your own consumption, you don’t have to deal with it alone.

Family doctors, addiction counseling centers, and mental health professionals can work together to help assess the situation and find appropriate support. The point is not to pass judgment, but to develop individualized solutions.

The sooner someone seeks help, the easier it often is to change their substance use and develop new coping strategies.

In a nutshell

Cannabis and other drugs can affect physical and mental health and, with regular use, increase the risk of addiction. Those who examine their own motivations for consumption, take warning signs seriously, and seek support when needed can take corrective action early on and develop healthier ways of coping with stress.

Your Next Step

Even just a few minutes of reflection can help you apply what you’ve read to your own situation.

Take a moment to think about your use of cannabis or other drugs.

• What role does consumption play in my daily life—and in what situations do I turn to it?
• Are there other ways to deal with stress or overwhelming emotions?
• Who can I talk to if I’m concerned about my substance use or would like some support?