Marijuana, also known as cannabis or weed, has distinct effects on the body, and understanding these substances can be beneficial in comprehending your girlfriend's “self-medication”. Serotonin, a chemical neurotransmitter, serves as a natural mood stabilizer (among other bodily functions). When these neurotransmitters become imbalanced, they are associated with depression. To help regulate neurotransmitters, some take certain antidepressants, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).In the body, serotonin is synthesized from tryptophan, an amino acid found in certain foods (among other sources), but not in marijuana.
Instead, the calming effects of smoking marijuana are due to a different set of compounds, namely tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannibidiol. While marijuana may help improve some people's moods, it may be beneficial to visit a mental health professional or healthcare provider to have your girlfriend discuss her depression and explore alternative methods of treating it. Antidepressants are commonly prescribed medications for mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety. Marijuana is federally illegal but has varying legality from state to state in the United States.
