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Differences in Effects
The effects of intoxication differ significantly between being drunk from alcohol and being high from drugs such as marijuana. Understanding these distinctions can clarify their short-term impacts and long-term consequences.
Short-Term Impact
The short-term effects of alcohol consumption and marijuana use vary considerably. Here is a summary of the immediate impacts of both:
EffectAlcohol (Drunk)Marijuana (High)Mood ChangesEuphoria, aggression, or depressionEuphoria, relaxation, anxiety, paranoiaMotor SkillsImpaired coordination and reaction timeAltered perception, slowed reaction timeJudgmentDecreased inhibitions leading to riskier behaviorImpaired judgment but less aggressive behaviorMemoryShort-term memory loss; blackouts possibleImpaired short-term memory; may cause forgetfulness
Alcohol typically leads to aggression or depressive states, while marijuana can induce relaxation or anxiety depending on the dose and individual sensitivity.
Long-Term Consequences
The long-term effects of these substances can be particularly concerning and differ based on frequency and age of use. Here’s a summary of the potential long-term consequences:
ConsequenceAlcohol (Drunkenness)Marijuana (Being High)DependencyHigh potential for addiction; risk of alcoholismChronic use may lead to physical dependence with withdrawal symptoms (American Addiction Centers)Mental Health RisksIncreased risk of depression and anxiety; potential for alcohol-related brain damageRisk of developing psychosis, especially in those who start in adolescence (WebMD)Cognitive ImpairmentsMemory issues, learning difficulties, and impaired cognition what is the mortality rate of alcoholism?Potential long-term cognitive impairments, especially if used heavily during adolescence how to know you’re addicted to marijuanaHealth ProblemsLiver disease, cardiovascular issues, and higher mortality rates from chronic useCan lead to increased anesthetic requirements in surgeries (WebMD)
Understanding what are the differences between being drunk and being high helps in recognizing the unique risks associated with each substance. By being informed, individuals can make better choices regarding their health and well-being. For more information on coping with addiction, explore our article on how can group therapy help treat my addiction?.
Psychological Effects
The psychological effects of substances such as alcohol and marijuana can vary significantly, influencing emotional responses and cognitive function. Understanding these differences helps to address the question of what are the differences between being drunk and being high?
Emotional Responses
The emotional responses elicited by alcohol and marijuana can differ greatly.
SubstanceCommon Emotional ResponsesAlcoholEuphoria, relaxation, increased confidence, but can also lead to anxiety, depression, and aggression (Priory Group)MarijuanaRelaxation, euphoria, but can also result in anxiety, panic, mistrust, and fear, particularly at higher doses (American Addiction Centers)
Alcohol tends to produce a mix of positive emotions initially, which may be followed by negative feelings as consumption continues. Conversely, marijuana may provide a sense of peace and joy for some users while promoting adverse effects for others, especially those who use it infrequently or at high doses.
Cognitive Function
Cognitive function is significantly impacted by both alcohol and marijuana use.
SubstanceCognitive ImpactAlcoholImpairs judgment, memory, and decision-making; associated with lower levels of growth and sex hormones, particularly harmful during adolescence (NCBI)MarijuanaCan affect short-term memory, attention, and problem-solving abilities; effects can vary based on dose and frequency of use
Alcohol use, particularly in adolescents, can lead to long-term cognitive impairments due to its effect on brain development [1]. The negative consequences of marijuana on memory and attention add to the complexity of understanding its cognitive effects. While both substances impair cognitive function, their specific impacts can differ, showcasing the nuanced differences between being drunk and being high.
Exploring these psychological effects sheds light on the broader implications of substance use and its potential to lead to addiction and dependence. Further insight into addiction can be found in our articles on how can group therapy help treat my addiction? and what can help with alcohol cravings?.
Physical Effects
Understanding the physical effects of substances can help clarify what are the differences between being drunk and being high?. This section will cover how drugs impact the body and how these effects can influence overall health.
Drugs on the Body
Substance use can have a significant impact on various bodily functions. Each type of drug, whether it be alcohol or marijuana, interacts differently with the body, leading to a range of physical effects.
SubstancePhysical EffectsAlcoholImpaired coordination, slower reflexes, increased risk of injury, dehydration, liver damage over timeMarijuanaChanges in perception, increased heart rate, decreased motor coordination, possible respiratory issues with smoking
Chronic and frequent use of marijuana can lead to physical dependence, causing withdrawal symptoms that may appear within the first week after quitting [2]. While alcohol has well-documented physical impacts, such as liver damage, marijuana, although not causing death directly, can lead to other health issues like paranoia or anxiety in high doses.
Impacts on Health
The long-term health effects of substance use extend beyond immediate physical sensations. Both alcohol and marijuana use can lead to more serious health complications:
SubstanceLong-Term Health EffectsAlcoholLiver disease, cardiovascular problems, high blood pressure, neurological damage, addictionMarijuanaDecreased cognitive function, potential mental health issues, respiratory problems from smoking
Substance use can also affect daily life negatively, leading to performance issues, challenges in relationships, poor educational outcomes, and overall diminished life satisfaction [4]. Being aware of these physical effects helps individuals make informed decisions regarding their substance use. For those seeking support in overcoming substance use, resources like how can group therapy help treat my addiction? can provide valuable assistance.
Addiction and Dependence
Addiction and dependence can develop with repeated use of substances, leading to significant challenges in one's life. Understanding the components of substance use disorders and withdrawal symptoms is crucial for recognizing the differences between being drunk and being high.
Substance Use Disorders
Substance use disorders (SUD) are conditions characterized by an individual's inability to control their use of a substance, despite the negative consequences it brings. Research indicates that approximately 1 in 10 individuals who use marijuana may develop an addiction or cannabis use disorder. The risk of addiction escalates when marijuana use begins in adolescence and with heavy or daily consumption. In fact, the likelihood of addiction is as high as 1 in 6 for teens and may reach 1 in 2 for those who use marijuana daily.
Substance use disorders can arise from both alcohol and drug use. For alcohol, chronic consumption can lead to a range of health issues that worsen over time, influencing behaviors and physical health. Alcoholism can have serious implications for heart and lung health as well as affect growth hormone levels in adolescents [6].
SubstanceRisk of AddictionMarijuana1 in 10Teen Marijuana Users1 in 6Daily Marijuana Users1 in 2AlcoholVaries by individual; increases with frequency and quantity of use
Withdrawal Symptoms
Withdrawal from substances like alcohol and marijuana can lead to a host of uncomfortable symptoms. Chronic and frequent marijuana use can lead to physical dependence, with withdrawal symptoms that may peak within the first week after cessation and last up to two weeks. Common withdrawal symptoms include:
Individuals may find that these symptoms are difficult to manage without support [2]. Recognizing these symptoms is vital in understanding the challenges faced when distinguishing between the effects of substances. For additional insights on managing cravings during withdrawal, consider visiting our article on what can help with alcohol cravings?.
Understanding addiction and dependence offers crucial perspectives on the broader questions of substance impact, including those relating to how to know you’re addicted to marijuana and additional recovery topics like is relapsing a part of recovery?.
Impact on Brain Development
The effects of substance use, particularly during formative years, can be profound. The impact on brain development can lead to lasting changes in cognitive and emotional functioning.
Chronic Use Effects
Chronic use of substances such as marijuana and alcohol during adolescence can adversely affect brain development. Marijuana, for instance, may lead to long-term physical and mental health problems. Studies indicate that individuals who start using marijuana at a young age may experience a permanent IQ loss of up to 8 points, which does not recover even after cessation of use [4].
Additionally, early exposure to alcohol is frequently linked to later alcohol abuse and dependence. It remains debatable whether early alcohol use is solely an indicator of future problems or if it alters neurodevelopment, thereby increasing the likelihood of later addiction. Withdrawal from marijuana can also result in symptoms such as irritability and mood changes that peak within the first week and may last up to two weeks.
Cognitive Impairments
Cognitive impairments associated with substance use can manifest in various ways. These may include difficulties with memory, attention, and decision-making. Chronic alcohol use can significantly impact cognitive functions, potentially leading to memory loss and issues with learning new information. In extreme cases, conditions such as meth-induced psychosis can lead to hallucinations and delusions, further complicating cognitive health.
Marijuana use during adolescence can particularly affect the brain's development, leading to deficits in attention, memory, and overall cognitive function. This can create challenges for individuals in academic and professional settings. Individuals may experience a reduction in their ability to perform tasks that require sustained focus or complex reasoning skills.
SubstancePossible Long-Term Cognitive EffectsMarijuanaPermanent IQ loss, attention deficits, memory issuesAlcoholMemory loss, learning difficulties, neurodevelopmental changes
Understanding the consequences of chronic substance use is essential in addressing the question of what are the differences between being drunk and being high? Sharing knowledge about these impacts can contribute to more informed decisions regarding substance use, especially during critical developmental periods. For more information on addiction treatments, consider our article on how can group therapy help treat my addiction?.
Co-Use Effects
The interaction between alcohol and cannabis is a growing concern, especially regarding its effects on individuals. As people often engage in concurrent use, understanding how gender variations and neurocognitive functioning are impacted becomes crucial.
Gender Variations
Research indicates that there are significant differences in how males and females experience impairments in working memory due to cannabis use. Female cannabis users demonstrate markedly different levels of working memory impairments compared to their male counterparts. The differences in effects have been observed even after controlling for alcohol use, suggesting that gender plays a critical role in how cannabis affects cognitive functions [8].
Moreover, the initiation of cannabis use during early adolescence can have varied developmental impacts on males and females. Current evidence points to gender-specific neurobiological mechanisms that influence executive functioning and decision-making regions of the brain, which may account for the observed differences in memory impairments.
GenderWorking Memory ImpairmentsMaleModerate ImpairmentFemaleSignificant Impairment
Neurocognitive Functioning
The co-use of alcohol and cannabis has been linked to several negative outcomes, including impaired cognitive function and changes in key structural and functional brain regions. Studies reveal that simultaneous use of these substances poses a higher risk for cognitive impairments. People who engage in both alcohol and cannabis use are more likely to experience adverse effects, such as diminished memory and decision-making capabilities, compared to those who use either substance alone or do not use substances at all.
Furthermore, adolescents and young adults who regularly partake in the co-use of these substances exhibit an increased likelihood of facing negative outcomes, including substance use disorders. The majority of individuals tend to use both alcohol and cannabis concurrently, which significantly elevates risks such as impaired driving and severe cognitive deficits [9].
Understanding the dynamics of how different substances affect individuals based on gender and the associated neurocognitive impacts is essential for addressing the broader implications of substance use. For further information on related topics, consider exploring how can group therapy help treat my addiction? and what can help with alcohol cravings?.
References
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