Final answer:
Psychological dependence on cannabis leads to an emotional need for the drug, causing difficulties in managing emotions when not using. Such dependence can lead to mental health challenges, and long-term use can cause cognitive and developmental issues. Cannabis's psychoactive effects may lead to addiction.
Step-by-step explanation:
When some people have a psychological dependence on cannabis, they may experience a strong emotional, rather than a physical, need for the drug. This dependence could manifest as using cannabis to relieve psychological distress such as anxiety, depression, or stress. In the absence of cannabis, individuals may face difficulties in coping with these emotions, leading to withdrawal symptoms that are psychological rather than physical, such as irritability, restlessness, or difficulty sleeping.
Unlike physical dependence, psychological dependence does not necessarily result in physical withdrawal symptoms but can significantly impact the individual’s mood, behavior, and mental health.
In the long term, cannabis can cause problems with brain development, especially in those who started using marijuana as teenagers, potentially leading to challenges with thinking, memory, and learning. Additional risks include respiratory issues from smoking, and developmental problems in children if used during pregnancy.
It is important to note that the psychoactive effects of cannabis can alter mood, perception, thinking, and behavior, potentially leading to a state of addiction where a person cannot cease usage despite negative consequences.