About Marijuana Addiction
While marijuana has been found to be an effective medication for some illnesses and conditions, it is more commonly used as a recreational drug. Marijuana has been approved for medical use in a number of states and legalized for recreational use in a few states. Marijuana is called the “gateway drug” because it is often the first drug with which people experiment, and after experimenting with marijuana, they may seek out other types of drugs. However, the majority of marijuana users do not go on to use harder drugs.
Marijuana use can be dangerous and addictive, so why do people smoke it or ingest it in food? The cannabinoid chemical THC is the main ingredient in marijuana that creates the pleasant feeling or high. Other effects include a sense of relaxation, enhanced sensory perception, an altered sense of time, laughter and an increased appetite (the “munchies”).
Short-term adverse health effects range from memory problems and difficulty thinking to the more serious impaired body movements and loss of motor coordination. When taken in high doses, marijuana users can experience temporary hallucinations, delusions and psychosis. Long-term effects include impaired brain development, breathing problems, increased heart rate, nausea and vomiting, and an increased risk of schizophrenia in some individuals.
Marijuana use can lead to a substance use disorder, meaning that the user cannot stop even while knowing that marijuana is causing mental, physical and social problems. Are you or someone you love suffering from addiction?
A Few Signs of Marijuana Use Disorder
- Worsening mental and physical health
- Decreased satisfaction with life and social relationships
- Problems with achieving work or academic success
- Chronic cough and bronchitis due to smoking
- Anxiety and/or depression
- Apathy and lack of motivation
- Inability to concentrate or problem-solve
Marijuana Detox Treatment Center
The first step in your recovery process is to go through our professionally-guided marijuana detox program. The treatment begins by abstaining from the use of marijuana until the drug is completely eliminated from the body. As the drug exits the body, the user will begin to experience withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms differ from person to person. However, our team is there to guide and help comfort the person throughout the detox process. Withdrawal symptoms may include:
- Irritability
- Anxiety and panic attacks
- Insomnia
- Stomach pains
- Sweats and chills
- Headaches
- Cravings for the drug
Detoxing from marijuana is difficult for most users to undertake alone, and some of the withdrawal symptoms may require medical assistance. In addition, many who quit end up relapsing in an attempt to make the withdrawal symptoms go away. Professional support is necessary to get patients through withdrawal safely, without relapsing and in as much comfort as possible.
Buena Vista, a well-known and reputable marijuana detox center, offers medically monitored detox programs as well as a range of therapies to help each patient work through addiction while providing the tools necessary for long-term sobriety. If you or a loved one is struggling with marijuana addiction and have made the decision to seek treatment, then let Buena Vista be the first step on your way to taking back your life.
Ready to regain control of your life? Take the first step on your marijuana addiction recovery journey today.
