Last updated : November 11, 2024
These days, general interest in the subject of marijuana has risen as more and more states have legalized the drug for medicinal purposes. By reading the informational guide provided below, you can learn about which states have legalized marijuana as well as several other subjects that pertain to the topic.
Marijuana Basics
Marijuana is a prevalent drug that is used throughout the world for medicinal and/or recreational purposes. The drug comes from a plant called “cannabis” and can be taken in the form of edible food or smoked. Marijuana use has clearly discernible effects, and the magnitude of these effects is contingent upon how potent the product was.
Where is Marijuana Legal?
At this point, 23 states and the District of Columbia maintain laws that permit the legal use of marijuana in some format. Below you will find a complete listing of regions where legal use of marijuana is in effect:
- Alaska
- Arizona
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- DC
- Delaware
- Hawaii
- Illinois
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Montana
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- Oregon
- Rhode Island
- Vermont
- Washington
At this point, there are four states in which marijuana is legalized for recreational purposes. Oregon and Alaska are scheduled to become the next regions in which recreational marijuana becomes legal. This change will go into effect in the year 2015 once voters approve cannabis ballot measures. Additionally, voters in the District of Columbia overwhelmingly voted for a ballot that will legalize marijuana for recreational purposes. The ballot initiative is now under Congressional review. Back in 2012, Washington and Colorado approved similar ballot measures. It’s important to note that several other states have approved marijuana laws that permit the medical use of the drug. The marijuana laws that are currently in place differ, with some being broader than others. Additionally, the kinds of medical conditions that warrant use of the drug vary between states.
Cautions
Although marijuana has been legalized in several states, it’s important to note that there are serious side effects. These overdoses are often referred to as “greening out.” Although a temporary overdose of the substance will not entail permanent death or disability, it can result in the experience of unwanted symptoms such as:
- A temporary sense of anxiety, fear, and/or paranoia
- Dilation of the pupils
- Shortness of breath
- Nausea and/or vomiting
- Rapid heart beat
- Uncontrollable shaking
- Feeling cold
- Hallucinations or a sense of disorientation
Getting Help
Individuals who find that their recreational and/or medicinal use of marijuana has resulted in substance dependence should note that a plethora of recovery options are available to them. Two of the options include professional rehabilitation services and professional detoxification services. People who attain professional assistance in the attempt to overcome marijuana addiction are generally more successful in attaining a life of abstinence than those who do not.
Conclusion
As made plain by the information regarding marijuana listed above, its use has become legalized in several states. However, it’s important to note that there are several negative side effects that can result from using the drug regularly, including substance dependence. If you believe that you or a loved one may be addicted to marijuana, contact a health professional immediately to attain the diagnosis and treatment services you deserve.
