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How Does Cannabis Affect the Brain?        by Anna Wilcox

12/23/2017

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Retrieved 23 December 2017 from https://herb.co/2017/02/01/weed-brain/

Have you ever wondered what weed does to your brain? Compounds in the cannabis plant interact directly with brain cells, contributing to both the psychoactive and therapeutic effects of the plant. But, are these effects harmful? Does cannabis cause lasting changes to the brain? Researchers have only just begun to uncover the mysteries of cannabis and the brain, but here is a brief summary of some of the literature thus far.

Why does cannabis affect the brain?

Cannabis affects the brain by engaging special receptor sites on cells. These receptors are called cannabinoid receptors, a name inspired by the cannabis plant. The cannabis plant produces chemical compounds (phytocannabinoids) that take the place of similar compounds that human bodies create naturally (endocannabinoids). The primary psychoactive in cannabis, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), has a psychotropic effect because of the way it engages cannabinoid receptors in the brain. While researchers are still working to uncover the mystery of how cannabis affects the mind and body, it is known that these receptors are located in parts of the central nervous system that control: Motor function Memory Mood Fear Pleasure Pain Cannabis receptors are also found extensively throughout the body, assisting in the communication between the central nervous system and the rest of the body. Some experts describe the endocannabinoid system as the largest neurotransmitter system in humans.

How does cannabis work in the brain?

When consumers inhale or ingest cannabis, compounds in the herb tap into the endocannabinoid system to produce possible therapeutic effects. Since the ECS regulates such a broad range of bodily functions, cannabis compounds have a very wide range of therapeutic potential. As Dr. Ethan Russo, neurologist and medical researcher at Phytecs, explains: […] in the endocannabinoid system one of its main roles in the brain is to regulate neurotransmitter function and again, if there’s too much of one kind of neurotransmitter it will bring it down, if there’s too little it will bring it up. Simply stated, the endocannabinoid system is a large regulatory network that works to create optimum balance in the mind and body.

When compounds like THC or the second most popular cannabinoid, 
cannabidiol (CBD), interact with the ECS, they change the balance of the system as a whole. Researchers like Russo theorize that a wide variety of conditions are caused by an imbalance or a deficiency of the endocannabinoid system. Some symptoms of endocannabinoid deficiency include: 
          Pain
          Nausea
          Decreased seizure threshold

Several mood and mental health disorders have also been linked to possible imbalances of the endocannabinoid system. In a 2016 paper, Russo briefly speculates that conditions like PTSD and bipolar disorder may involve the ECS. Physical ailments like fibromyalgia, migraine, and irritable bowel syndrome are also thought to be involved. British researchers at GW Pharmaceuticals have also found that certain cannabis compounds can ease anxiety and psychotic distress in patients with treatment-resistant schizophrenia. This conclusion was reached after successful phase 2 double-blind, randomized, and placebo-controlled human trials.

What does cannabis do to your brain?

Cannabis enthusiasts have oft been depicted as unintelligent and unmotivated in popular culture. However, recent research suggests that the herb does not contribute to a low IQ in the long term. In the short term, cannabis has been associated with poorer test scores after recent exposure to the herb. These effects have been reported as long as one month after cannabis consumption. In heavy cannabis consumers, it often takes one month or longer to clear the system of THC.

In December of 2015, 
research published by the Preceedings of the National Acadamy of Sciences tested for cognitive differences in cannabis consuming twins. Studies that examine differences between identical twins allow researchers to separate the effects of nature from the effects of nurture. In this case, the research team had one central question. If one twin loved the herb, and the other abstained, would the cannabis-using twin have a lower IQ? The study did find that cannabis consumers were associated with lower test scores, but socioeconomic status and familial issues are thought to be the primary drivers. When the team tested to see if the outcome changed with various doses of cannabis, they found nothing. If cannabis was, in fact, causing low test scores, the data would show worsening symptoms at higher doses. The overall verdict? Cannabis is not associated with long-term cognitive decline.

Is there a health downside to cannabis?

When it comes to concerns about cannabis and health, the herb’s potential to be habit-forming is one of the biggest concerns for consumers, parents, and health professionals. Though, what cannabis dependence means in terms of long-term brain health is still to be determined. Some estimates suggest that approximately 9% of cannabis consumers develop dependence, compared with 32% of tobacco smokers and 15% of alcohol consumers. Research suggests that dopamine, the reward neurotransmitter, may be in part responsible. Alterations in the dopamine system are thought to contribute to behavioral problems.

One 2016 study suggests that cannabis can cause lasting changes to the brain’s reward system. To measure this, researchers performed brain scans on 59 cannabis consumers who had consumed the herb daily for the past 60 days, or at least 5,000 times in their lives. The researchers showed the participants images of cannabis and images of other natural products, like their favorite fruit. Brain imaging found that heavy cannabis users were more likely to have a strong pleasure reaction to the cannabis than to the fruit. The 70 individuals that did not use cannabis had a greater reward response to the fruit. According to study author Dr. Francesca Filbey, this 
indicates, This study shows that marijuana disrupts the natural reward circuitry of the brain, making marijuana highly salient to those who use it heavily. In essence, these brain alterations could be a marker of transition from recreational marijuana use to problematic use. Filbey is an associate professor behavior and brain science at the University of Texas at Dallas. To summarize, cannabis is very attractive and pleasurable to the brains of heavy consumers, raising concerns about potential cannabis addiction.

Another 
study funded by the National Institute of Drug Abuse found that cannabis dependent consumers produced a lower dopamine response to an amphetamine drug than non-consumers. The study authors argue that this lowered dopamine response is associated with a “deficit of striatal dopamine release”, which may contribute to inattentiveness, poor working memory, and probabilistic category learning. The cannabis dependent consumers did not consume the herb seven days prior to the start of the study. The study looked at 11 cannabis consumers and 12 healthy controls. There are several major downsides to this study, including the small sample size. More research is needed to evaluate dopamine pre- and post-cannabis consumption. Correlation does not always mean causation. Further, THC can stay in the system of a heavy consumer for several weeks after the last time they consumed. In this study, participants abstained for a brief week-long period, not enough for the psychoactive to completely leave their system. Follow-up research is needed to see if these changes are long-lasting.

Is cannabis good for the brain?

Back in 1988, Francis Young, a DEA Administrative Law Judge responded to a petition to reclassify cannabis as a Schedule II substance, acknowledging the herb’s medical value. While the media and the available research seemingly go back and forth on the risks of cannabis, Judge Young was confident in the herb’s safety and therapeutic application. After strenuous research and review of the case, Judge Young ultimately recommended that the plant be rescheduled. He states, [Marijuana is] one of the safest therapeutically active substances known to man…. In strict medical terms, marijuana is far safer than many foods we commonly consume. Now, nearly two decades later, there is far more information on the health risks of cannabis.

Today, ample preclinical evidence suggests that compounds in the herb are:

       Anti-inflammatory agents
       Antioxidants 
       Neuroprotective 
       Promotive of brain cell growth 

All of these qualities suggest that the herb may possibly improve brain health in certain conditions. However, what those conditions are exactly are difficult to determine. In terms of occasional to moderate cannabis consumption, there is little evidence that the herb causes any sort of long-term damage. Other than becoming dependent on cannabis, there is still no evidence of serious health harms caused by even chronic cannabis use. Though, studies like those cited in the above section suggest that harms may be possible.

Yet, for many, regular cannabis use can drastically improve quality of life and assist in healing in some mental and neurological conditions. While at least one small study has found that heavy cannabis may be associated with low dopamine activity in certain parts of the brain, in some cases, it may help save dopamine-producing neurons. Such is the case with 
Parkinson’s Disease. Parkinson’s patients experience a huge loss of dopamine neurons in a region called the substantial nigra, an area in the middle of the brain that controls movement and reward. Preclinical evidence suggests that cannabis may have a neuroprotective effect on these cells, preventing and slowing degenerations. Cannabis treatments are also now being considered for brain trauma prevention by National Football League (NFL) players. Researchers have only just begun to put this theory to the test. One pharmaceutical company, Kannalife Sciences is currently studying the neuroprotective effects of cannabis compounds, in hopes of one day creating a cannabis drug that can mitigate damage from concussions. Age makes a difference
Photo credit Teens should proceed with caution when it comes to regular cannabis consumption. Chronic cannabis consumption in adolescents and teens with developing brains is a cause for alarm among parents and medical professionals alike. As it turns out, cannabis may have a different impact on the brain depending on the age when the consumer first starts. Two of the primary concerns? A greater likelihood of dependence and difficulties with attention and memory. Young and teenaged brains are significantly more susceptible to addictive behaviors, which is one reason many parents and health professionals are wary about adolescent consumption.

One 
2014 study published in Psychopharmacology argues that cannabis consumption is worth the wait. The study found that cannabis consumers who began using the herb in their teens were more likely to be impulsive and had alterations in white matter. These alterations were found in teens who began consuming prior to the age of 16. However, these effects were not seen in those who began consuming cannabis later in life. Behavioral impulsivity was the primary concern addressed in this study. Otherwise, no life-threatening impacts have been noted. Adults, in contrast, may gain more benefit from the herb than harm.

​n 2008, an Ohio State University 
study found that a synthetic cannabinoid (a man-made THC) successfully reduced brain inflammation and improved memory in senior rodent models. These findings, plus a wealth of additional preclinical evidence, has lead researcher Gary Wenk, Ph.D. and study coauthor, to believe that consuming the herb may help improve the minds of aging adults. He hypothesizes, I think all we can say safely so far is using low doses of marijuana for prolonged periods of time at some point in your life, possibly when you’re middle-aged to late middle-aged, is probably going to slow the onset or development of dementia, to the point where you’ll most likely die of old age before you get Alzheimer’s. The general consensus, perhaps? Habitual smoking cannabis is not the healthiest thing to do, especially for individuals who are already young and healthy. However, the benefits of the plant may only increase into adulthood and old age.



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October 15th, 2013

10/15/2013

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Picture
By Jennifer Cohen | Forbes
Retrieved 15 October 2013 from
Rise and shine! Morning time just became your new best friend. Love it or hate it, utilizing the morning hours before work may be the key to a successful and healthy lifestyle. That’s right, early rising is a common trait found in many CEOs, government officials, and other influential people. Margaret Thatcher was up every day at 5 a.m.; Frank Lloyd Wright at 4 am and Robert Iger, the CEO of Disney wakes at 4:30am just to name a few. I know what you’re thinking - you do your best work at night. Not so fast. According to Inc. Magazine, morning people have been found to be more proactive and more productive. In addition, the health benefits for those with a life before work go on and on. Let’s explore 5 of the things successful people do before 8 am.

1. Exercise. I’ve said it once, I’ll say it again. Most people that work out daily, work out in the morning. Whether it’s a morning yoga session or a trip to the gym, exercising before work gives you a boost of energy for the day and that deserved sense of accomplishment. Anyone can tackle a pile of paperwork after 200 ab reps! Morning workouts also eliminate the possibility of flaking out on your cardio after a long day at work. Even if you aren’t bright eyed and bushy tailed at the thought of a 5 am jog, try waking up 15 minutes early for a quick bedside set of pushups or stretching. It’ll help wake up your body, and prep you for your day.

2. Map Out Your Day. Maximize your potential by mapping out your schedule for the day, as well as your goals and to dos. The morning is a good time for this as it is often one of the only quiet times a person gets throughout the day. The early hours foster easier reflection that helps when prioritizing your activities. They also allow for uninterrupted problem solving when trying to fit everything into your timetable. While scheduling, don’t forget about your mental health. Plan a 10 minute break after that stressful meeting for a quick walk around the block or a moment of meditation at your desk. Trying to eat healthy? Schedule a small window in the evening to pack a few nutritious snacks to bring to work the next day.

3. Eat a Healthy Breakfast. We all know that rush out the door with a cup of coffee and an empty stomach feeling. You sit down at your desk, and you’re already wondering how early that taco truck sets up camp outside your office. No good. Take that extra time in the morning to fuel your body for the tasks ahead of it. It will help keep you mind on what’s at hand and not your growling stomach. Not only is breakfast good for your physical health, it is also a good time to connect socially. Even five minutes of talking with your kids or spouse while eating a quick bowl of oatmeal can boost your spirits before heading out the door.

4. Visualization. These days we talk about our physical health ad nauseam, but sometimes our mental health gets overlooked. The morning is the perfect time to spend some quiet time inside your mind meditating or visualizing. Take a moment to visualize your day ahead of you, focusing on the successes you will have. Even just a minute of visualization and positive thinking can help improve your mood and outlook on your work load for the day.

5. Make Your Day Top Heavy. We all have that one item on our to do list that we dread. It looms over you all day (or week) until you finally suck it up and do it after much procrastination. Here’s an easy tip to save yourself the stress - do that least desirable task on your list first. Instead of anticipating the unpleasantness of it from first coffee through your lunch break, get it out of the way. The morning is the time when you are (generally) more well rested and your energy level is up. Therefore, you are more well equipped to handle more difficult projects. And look at it this way, your day will get progressively easier, not the other way around. By the time your work day is ending, you’re winding down with easier to dos and heading into your free time more relaxed. Success!


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Heuristics and Bad Choices.

8/7/2012

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Example:

“Tom is a very petite and frail man, who lives in Iowa.  He is extremely detailed oriented, and will spend a great deal of time organizing his paperwork and personal effects.  In social settings, Tom is well known for being meticulously clean and well dressed.  Tom speaks very eloquently and is knowledgeable about many different academic areas.  Tom attended university in at a state university in the Midwest, and graduated at the top of his class within his major."

Is it more likely that Tom is a farmer or a librarian?

Why?

When asked this question, what information did you use to come up with your answer?

Most of us use what is called the availability heuristic when answering such a question.  We consider the facts as they presented to us, and we build something in our mind that closely reflects how we interpreted the information provided.  Our mind goes to the closest available prototype we can come up with.  When given only this information, most of us would picture in our minds and academic looking individual who would fit into the preconception of a librarian. 

Let’s rephrase our introduction of Tom…

“Tom is elderly man who appears to have had a long and productive life.  Tom lives in a rural state.  Tom keeps his few possessions in very good working order, and will spend much time ensuring his paperwork is in order through the year.  When Tom goes to town, he is always cleaned up and never wears work clothes.  People in town seek out Tom’s sage-like advice when they have problems at work;  he proudly tells people that he is both book smart from attending college and street smart from years of work.”

The availability heuristic would tell most of us that this must be another Tom!  This cannot be the same individual that was talked about before.  This “down home”, quintessential man of the land is without a doubt a farmer, no?

What we failed to take into account is some information that would have help desk in this venture.  So let's up the stakes a little bit....  Pretend you didn’t get the second introduction to Tom, only the first.  I'm going to give you the exact same information as before, but require you to wager $1000 of your own dollars on the answer.  Your answer or guess would not change because no additional information has been given. 

To be fair, since you are being instructed to wager your own money, I'm going to allow you to ask one question about Tom.  However as with all games there are rules.  You cannot ask tom directly what he does for a living, or is he possesses traits or attributes that would be required for a person of the chosen profession.  For example, you cannot ask Tom if he possesses master’s degree in library science, nor can you ask him if you'd ever driven a combine. You cannot ask him what clothing he wears to work as that would indicate his profession.  You can, however, ask him where he lives, what is favorite television show is or what his hobbies are.

Given the ability to ask one question, most people would choose a question that would try to confirm their initial analysis.  Therefore if they ask tom where he lives, any answer he gives will be seen as confirming their initial analysis.  If Tom response that he lives in Iowa, you would automatically compare your prototype for an Iowa farmer verses the description of Tom; therefore your initial analysis that he is a librarian is confirmed. 

According to Daniel Kahneman, psychologist and expert on decision making heuristics, there is a much better question you should ask Tom.  Let's first assume most people believe to be the correct answer is, from their availability heuristic, that tom is without a doubt a librarian.  But the simple piece of information it doesn't even need to be asked because we already intuitively know it, is the information that should change most peoples wager:

How many male farmers are there in the world in comparison to the number of male librarians? 

We know without researching, without Googling, without scouring Wikipedia, that there are substantially more farmers in the world than librarians.  In the United States, the ratio of farmers to librarians is over 20:1! 



Does this change your answer when you're putting your money on the line?  No matter how we describe Tom, you are a huge underdog if you put your money on the fact that tom is a library.   Without confirming evidence that tom told you he is a librarian or you see him working at a library, smart money goes on the fact that Tom would be a farmer. 

If we wanted to get tricky, the introduction to Tom could have even included that he possesses a master’s degree from an Ivy League school.  While it is true this is of little benefit to a farmer it still doesn't change the fact that the total population of male farmers far outweighs the total number of male librarians.  Though the prototype in your mind would be screaming at you that Tom is a librarian, overcoming the small little statistician in your brain that is telling you that it’s a bad bet to claim Tom is anything but a farmer.

How can we apply such information to everyday life?  Sometimes this game doesn't have the happiest of endings.... You go to a wedding this weekend to witness two lovly people get married,  both of whom recently divorced from previous partners.  Yet they found each other and make each other blissfully happy.  The availability heuristic told you that they are happy now, they both have been through a bad situation and therefore know how to deal accordingly, and you can never see this blissful moment changing.  Yet the tiny little statistician in your head is screaming that there is well over a 50/50 chance this blissful moment will not last. 

Or you're flipping a penny with a friend, and the last 5 flips have come up heads.  You know the penny is on the up and up and not a fake, weighted coin, so you offer your friend 2 to 1 odds that the next time it will come up tails, because tails is it "due"... forgetting to take into account that each flip is an independent trial but has no memory.  The availability heuristic in your mind is telling you that it must come up tail soon... and the statistical part of your brain gently cries to self to sleep in the knowledge that mathematicians don’t make bad bets. 

Why is all of this important?  Once we realize that we are sometimes awful at making inferences from information that is provided us, we can start to see that we need is much information as possible to make big decisions in our lives.  We can’t assume we know what is going on in a situation from the limited knowledge we are given.  We must strive to look deeper.  In psychology this often times means putting aside our preconceived notions and gathering as much information as possible.  When we perform initial assessments of new clients, even the most seasoned and professional clinician can fall prey to the availability heuristic and confirmation bias by asking questions that will lead to statement of confirmation to a preconceived notion.  The same can occur with functional in applied behavior analysis.  so often with problematic behaviors individuals, caregivers, parents and observers will believe that they know the function of the troubling behavior long before any analysis is complete, and will therefore use data analysis to confirm what they already believe.

It is not only a case where asking the right question is imperative, but also asking the simplest questions.  Making international assumption will often times you information well past the point of no return.  in poker, you can flopped a straight very easily but if there are 2 suited cards on the flop and someone continually bets into you will assume that they must have a flush draw since you already have a straight.  However you are falling prey to forgetting that everyone (and everything) is susceptible to imperfect information.  You know what you possess did you believe you know what other people process but you truly don't know. Understanding and accepting what you don't know is often the most important piece of information you can obtain.

So the next time you think you have the right answer because you have all the information that someone has provided you, consider that you might not have taken in all the needed information.  When you consider that sometimes you are your worst enemy in gather all the information, we need not even consider that the person telling you the “facts” might be trying to get one over on you! 

Bradley Mitchell


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    Unless otherwise noted, all blog posts are authored by Bradley Mitchell, provost of MBPSI.  
    All rights reserved.  
    Reprints, reposts and replication of blogs in part or in their entirety for monetary gain is expressly prohibited without written authorization.

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