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Skunk cannabis has hit the headlines this week after a study linked it to a quarter of all new psychosis cases. It is believed that the cannabis available on the streets is now much more powerful than it was a decade ago and the high levels of TBH are causing more and more people to become psychotic as a result of abusing the drug.
TV Programme
With so much hype surrounding the drug and its link to cases of psychosis, three well known volunteers have agreed to try skunk, hash, and a placebo for a new television programme to be screened on Channel 4 on March 3rd 2015. The programme is called Drugs Live: Cannabis on Trial and will see the channel’s regular news host, Jon Snow joined by Jennie Bond, the former royal correspondent, and ex-MP Matthew Parris. The scientific trial has had Home Office approval and will see the trio taking part in the tests to see how two versions of cannabis, hash and skunk, effect the brain as compared to a placebo drug.
Frightened
For the programme, Jon took skunk and admitted that he was more frightened while undergoing an MRI scan under the influence of the powerful drug than he was reporting from war zones. He said, “I can fully believe this week’s figures that tell us that 25% of all psychosis treated in Britain is associated with smoking skunk.”
He said he had no idea of how powerful the drug could be and how it could alter the mind in such a terrifying way. He also believes that, if more people saw the way that the drug affects the brain as shown on the MRI scanner, they would make a more informed decision before smoking it.
Skunk on the Streets
Of all the cannabis sold on British streets, skunk is said to account for three-quarters, which is a major concern. Skunk has been linked to psychosis and is more addictive than previously available versions of the drug. Other problems associated with skunk are memory loss and paranoia.
This trial was organised by Professor Val Curran from University College London and she said that she is very excited by the research project, as it will allow people to see how different forms of the drug can have different effects on behaviour as well as on the brain.
Increase in Cannabis Addictions
Over the years, there have been more cases of cannabis addiction and experts believe this has a lot to do with the emergence of more powerful forms of the drug. Previous versions had a balance of two main ingredients THC and CBD. THC is the ingredient that produces the high and gives the user the feeling of being ‘stoned’. However, it can also produce feelings of paranoia and anxiety and can affect memory. CBD has the opposite effect. It contains anti-psychotic properties, offsets memory loss, and can calm the user down.
The problem with the more powerful version of cannabis – skunk – is that it contains more THC than CBD, which can lead to higher numbers becoming addicted and developing psychosis.
Help for Cannabis Addiction
If you or a loved one is suffering with a cannabis addiction, it is time to get help. Rehab Helper has a team of expert therapists, advisors, and counsellors waiting to support you on your journey to recovery. We can put you in touch with a suitable treatment provider and can give you information on the treatment options available to you.
If you want to break free from the cycle of addiction, call us today for free, confidential advice.
Sources:
- http://www.droitwichadvertiser.co.uk/leisure/national/11801027.Jon_Snow__Smoking_skunk_was_terrifyingly_mind_altering/
- http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-31518546
