Marijuana—aka weed, grass, or pot—is one of the most commonly used drugs in America. The stigma surrounding marijuana use has decreased in recent decades, and over half of Americans have admitted to at least trying it at some point. As a result of these changing attitudes, recreational marijuana use has become legal in many states, in addition to its many legitimate medical applications. But, modern weed strains contain much higher levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the chemical that produces marijuana’s most common psychological effects. These much more potent strains increase the likelihood of a user becoming addicted to weed.
If you or someone you love is addicted to marijuana, help is available at a marijuana addiction treatment center. Washburn House offers individualized approaches across a wide spectrum of care, from medically supervised detox to inpatient, outpatient, and ongoing alumni programs. Addiction doesn’t have to control your life. Call Washburn House today at 855.298.3104 and take that first step toward recovery.
Is Weed Addiction Real?
You may have heard that marijuana is not really addictive. But studies show that marijuana use puts a person at risk for a marijuana use disorder, the most extreme form of which is addiction. It’s estimated that roughly one-third of American adults who use marijuana also live with some form of marijuana use disorder. Additionally, the risk of developing a marijuana use disorder is up to seven times higher in people who began using marijuana before the age of 18 than it is in adults.
Signs of Weed Addiction
Weed doesn’t carry the same risk of overdose or death as other substances like alcohol, opioids, or meth. But, the prevalence of weed use and its general acceptance within the population may make it difficult to identify symptoms of addiction or to raise your concerns with a loved one about their habits. But, there are signs that may indicate that you or someone you love is addicted to weed, including
- Withdrawal
- Lack of other interests
- Relationship challenges
Withdrawal
If someone is living with a marijuana use disorder, they may develop symptoms of withdrawal if they cannot use weed to satisfy a craving. The symptoms of withdrawal include irritability, anxiety, and restlessness. Withdrawal can also have intense physical symptoms like chills and tremors.
Loss of Interest in Other Things
Addiction of any kind will affect a person’s ability to make decisions. They may withdraw from social situations, be unable to set and meet goals, or will lose interest in activities that previously had been a source of satisfaction.
Difficulties in Relationships
A person living with addiction may pull away from family members and friends, especially if their loved ones do not approve of their substance use. Without proper intervention, addiction can become the center of a person’s whole life.
What to Expect from Weed Addiction Treatment
Even though marijuana does not carry the same overdose risk as other substances, it is still unwise to try to recover from weed addiction alone. Often, the physical symptoms of withdrawal can be so severe that a person will relapse before they can fully detox. So, medical supervision during this initial period can be vital to a patient’s success.
When someone enters an addiction treatment program, they will be assessed by an intake professional, who will go over their drug use (both current and past) and medical history. They may also assess the patient’s mental health as they determine what treatment modalities may be right for their situation. Following detox, a patient may be admitted to a residential inpatient program, a day treatment program, or an intensive outpatient program. No matter what, a patient is always supported by a community of addiction specialists and fellow clients who understand each other’s needs and struggles.
Marijuana Addiction Treatment is Available at Washburn House
Addiction can take over a person’s whole life. It will affect their physical and mental health, and it may damage their most important relationships. If you or a loved one is dealing with a marijuana use disorder, help is available right now at Washburn House. Call us today at 855.298.3104. Our intake specialists can get you on the road to recovery. You can also fill out our online contact form and allow us to get back to you.