If you or someone you love is struggling with marijuana use, you’re not alone. While marijuana is often seen as a harmless substance, it can lead to dependence and interfere with daily life. For those looking for marijuana addiction treatment, recognizing the signs of dependence is the first step toward recovery. At Promises Washburn House, we’ve been helping people struggling with life’s stresses since 1896. You don’t have to go through recovery alone—help is available, and a brighter future is within reach.
What To Know About Marijuana Dependence
Marijuana dependence occurs when the brain adapts to regular exposure, leading to withdrawal symptoms when use stops. Research shows that about 9% of people who use marijuana, roughly one in 11, may develop a dependency over time. This risk increases to 17%, or about one in six, for those who begin using in their teenage years and rises further—up to 50%—among daily users.1
While some people can use marijuana occasionally without issue, for others, it becomes a daily necessity that impacts work, relationships, and overall well-being. Recognizing the difference between casual use and dependence is key to seeking help.
What Are the Troubling Long-Term Effects of Marijuana Use?
Many assume marijuana is completely safe, but prolonged use can have serious consequences. The long-term effects of marijuana use include:
- Memory and thinking problems – Research shows that using marijuana regularly can affect your memory and make it harder to think clearly, especially if you start using it at a young age.
- Mental health issues – Marijuana use has been linked to an increased risk of anxiety, depression, and psychosis, especially in individuals predisposed to mental health conditions.
- Respiratory problems – Smoking marijuana can cause chronic bronchitis and lung irritation over time.
- Lower motivation and productivity – Some users experience a decline in motivation, which can lead to struggles in work and school settings.
Understanding these risks can be a powerful motivator to seek support and explore healthier coping mechanisms.
What Are the Signs of Marijuana Abuse?
If you’re worried about your marijuana use or that of a loved one, look for these warning signs:
- Using marijuana more often than intended
- Neglecting responsibilities at work, school, or home
- Losing interest in hobbies and social activities
- Experiencing cravings or withdrawal symptoms
- Continuing to use despite adverse effects on mental or physical health
Recognizing these signs early can prevent serious consequences and make recovery more manageable.
Can Marijuana Abuse Co-Occur With Other Mental Health Issues?
Yes, and this is more common than many realize. Many struggling with marijuana dependence also experience anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges. This is known as a co-occurring disorder, where substance use and mental health issues feed into one another.
At Promises Washburn House, we believe in treating both addiction and mental health concerns simultaneously to break the cycle of dependence and improve long-term recovery outcomes.
How Marijuana Addiction Treatment Can Help
There’s no such thing as a one-size-fits-all treatment for addiction. At Promises Washburn House, we tailor treatment plans to each individual’s needs, offering a range of options, including:
- Medically supervised detox to ease withdrawal symptoms
- Inpatient and outpatient rehab programs for structured support
- Therapies like CBT and DBT to address underlying triggers
- Support groups and aftercare planning to sustain long-term recovery
Getting better together means having a supportive environment where healing is possible. Whether you need intensive care or outpatient treatment, we’re here to guide you on your journey.
Connect With Promises Washburn House and Start Marijuana Addiction Treatment Today
If you recognize signs of marijuana dependence in yourself or someone close to you, know that help is available. The path to recovery starts with a single step, and you don’t have to do it alone. At Promises Washburn House, we provide compassionate and evidence-based treatment in Worcester, MA. Call us today at 855.298.3104 or contact our team online to learn how we can help. A life free from marijuana dependence is possible—take the first step today.
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