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Researchers link marijuana use to emotional instability

By Staff Writer

Components in marijuana that cause individuals to experience a "high" affect the same areas of the brain that have been associated with schizophrenia and emotional disorders, according to a recent study published in The Journal of Neuroscience.

Researchers said they believe that abnormalities in the amygdala and prefrontal cortex regions of schizophrenic patients' brains may inhibit their ability to process emotions. The scientists simulated the effects of marijuana on these areas by stimulating the subjects' cannabinoid receptors.

The results showed that this process significantly increased neural activity related to emotional perception and processing.

The scientists said they believe that individuals who regularly use marijuana when they are young adults may be more likely to experience schizophrenia or paranoia later in life, since these receptors are repeatedly activated.

According to the National Office on Drug Control Policy, marijuana is the most commonly used drug among American youth. The organization notes that more than 16 million people who are over the age of 12 currently use the illegal drug.

Kids who struggle with drug use may benefit from boarding schools for troubled youth, where their activities can be monitored to promote healthy lifestyle changes.

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