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The Dark Side of Cannabis: How Addiction Can Lead to a Blunted Reward Center

What is Amotivational Syndrome

Antonio Segovia, MD.
3 min readDec 3, 2022
Image From Canva By jarino47 on Pixabay

For many people, cannabis is a relaxant, a stress reliever, and a way to enjoy some downtime. However, what some users may not realize is that cannabis addiction is a natural phenomenon, and it can have some pretty severe consequences.

One of the most dangerous aspects of cannabis addiction is how it affects the brain’s reward center.

What Is Amotivational Syndrome?

Amotivational syndrome- a psychiatric condition diagnosed by changes in emotions, personality, and cognitive function, was first discussed in the 1960s.

People who suffer from motivational syndrome will lack motivation, concentration, and activeness, emanate apathy, and have poor memory. Interestingly, this disorder was first found in individuals with long-term cannabis use.

This condition, which has been linked to other drugs like methamphetamines and some cough syrups, may be what’s causing your recent lack of motivation and joy.

Photo by Ian Stauffer on Unsplash

How Cannabis Addiction…

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Antonio Segovia, MD.
Antonio Segovia, MD.

Written by Antonio Segovia, MD.

Physician. Media and Journalism specialist. Scientific disclosure. Medicine, Mental Health, Psychology, Inspiration, Philosophy, Culture, Poetry, Books, Sports.

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