05/02/2016 / By Claire Rankin
What used to be termed as shyness or simply an individual who has an introverted personality is now termed a disorder, SAD, which stands for Social Anxiety Disorder. Introverts are people who find their peace away from people and feel most comfortable when they are alone. How does cannabis help them cope?
It is said that people who are lacking in the hormone dopamine can tend to be introverted. Since introverts don’t release this hormone in large amounts they don’t get as much joy from large parties or gatherings. This is why, in many cases, shy and introverted people use alcohol to loosen up and relax in social settings. While alcohol frees inhibitions and can make introverts louder and more chatty, marijuana can work by making things slow down and can make one feel calm and mellow in a social setting.
Some introverted people find that cannabis can help them with the energy loss that comes along with life in modern society, where they are forced to interact with others because of work or other commitments. Their fear may be made worse by a lack of social skills or experience in social situations. Some develop great feelings of loneliness and social isolation. Marijuana, like alcohol, can be used as a social crutch.
Research has shown that the traits shared by many introverts could be linked to a preference for cannabis over alcohol and other recreational drugs. Since introverts often “re-charge” by doing something creative, this may be one of the reasons why introverts enjoy cannabis. In fact, research does show that taking cannabis can increase creativity.
High energy sativa strains of marijuana, with high THC levels can help feel alert, energized and more comfortable around others. Strains such as Sour Diesel have been especially bred for this type of reaction.
Another strain, OG Kush, is said to ease social anxiety and some introverts have found that it makes them less fearful in social situations.
It must be said that while marijuana does help to ease social uneasiness with some people, regular cannabis use has made other introverts even more socially anxious and withdrawn than ever.
Sources:
https://www.weedweekly.com/introverted-this-is-how-cannabis-can-help-you/#
http://lonerwolf.com/marijuana-introverts/
https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/psychology-masala/201204/cannabis-and-creativity