Marijuana addiction has been the topic of many headlines in recent years. Some states have already legalized this drug, and people continue to fight for or against legalization across the country. Some who argue for the legalization of marijuana claim that marijuana isn’t addictive, but this isn’t true. While this substance isn’t as addictive as some others, users can still develop a dependency or addiction. If you are experiencing withdrawal symptoms when you quit using marijuana, you may have developed a physical dependence. If you can’t quit this drug despite it repeatedly causing problems in your life, you may be addicted and could benefit from proven therapies in an inpatient recovery program.
Marijuana Addiction
Understanding Marijuana Addiction
Extended use of marijuana affects the user’s body and mind.
Frequently Asked Questions About Marijuana Addiction
Marijuana addiction is rare, but it is certainly possible. The National Institute on Drug Abuse estimates that 9% of people who use marijuana will eventually abuse the substance. Stress, mental illness, and genetics can all play a factor in increasing a user’s risk of dependency or addiction.
Extended use of marijuana affects the user’s body and mind. Especially when use begins in adolescence, marijuana can affect brain development and IQ—even permanently. Physical effects include increased heart rate after use and breathing problems similar to those experienced by people who smoke tobacco regularly.
Not every person who uses marijuana will experience dependency or withdrawal symptoms, but those who do report a range of symptoms including:
- Irritability
- Mood swings
- Difficulty sleeping or restlessness
- Decreased appetite
- Cravings
- Physical discomfort
If you experience withdrawal symptoms whenever you attempt to quit marijuana, you may have developed a dependency. If you continue to use marijuana despite it causing legal problems or problems in your life, career, or relationships, you may be addicted to marijuana.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) has been proven to help drug users and addicts recognize and replace unhealthy beliefs or behaviors. When combined with a 12-step program for accountability, therapies such as CBT can be key to a marijuana addict’s recovery. Because mental illness increases the risk of dependency, some marijuana abusers also benefit from dual diagnosis to treat both the addiction and any underlying condition.
How Hawaii Island Recovery Can Help You Recover from Marijuana Addiction
Here at Hawaii Island Recovery, our multi-disciplinary, integrative treatment approach combines the most effective evidence-based interventions with experiential and holistic therapies. Users benefit from talking therapies (such as CBT), experiential therapies (such as wild dolphin assisted therapy) and holistic health services (such as yoga) as they pursue healing of the body, soul, and mind. For users with co-existing conditions, dual diagnosis is also available. All therapies are administered within the framework of a 12-step program to support a full and lasting recovery.