Marijuana/Cannabis Addiction

Marijuana is a substance derived from the cannabis plant. It goes by other names like cannabis, weed, pot, grass, joint, and more.

When consumed (typically smoked), cannabis’ active compounds, primarily tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), bind with the cannabinoid receptors in the brain and give rise to a “high”, a kind of euphoric feeling. It is because of this “high” that cannabis has become a widely used recreational drug.

It also produces other psychoactive effects, like enhancing mood, reducing anxiety, providing pain relief, and so on.

While THC is the most well-known cannabinoid, there are other cannabinoids as well. Cannabidiol (CBD), cannabigerol (CBG), and cannabinol (CBN) are among them. CBD is touted for its medical uses, while CBN is known to be psychoactive.

Yes, cannabis can be addictive. Whenever the subject of legalizing marijuana or cannabis comes up, the debate on whether or not it is addictive arises.

To understand this in better detail, it is also crucial to understand the difference between use, dependence, and addiction. Not everyone who uses cannabis will become addicted to the substance. However, frequent and extended cannabis use can lead to dependence and a more severe condition known as Cannabis Use Disorder (CUD).

First things first, CUD is not the same as cannabis addiction. It affects 10% of cannabis users, and it recognizes how cannabis can negatively impact lives, even if they are not necessarily addicted to it.

The long-term effects of marijuana use can vary depending on factors such as the frequency of use, the age at which someone starts using, and the amount consumed. While marijuana may have medicinal uses and is increasingly legalized in various parts of the world, long-term or heavy use can lead to several physical, mental, and behavioral effects. Here are some of the most significant long-term effects of marijuana:

• Memory issues that make it more difficult to retain new information and perform tasks that require focus and attention.
• Reduced learning and decision-making abilities
• Increased Anxiety and Paranoia
• Depression and mood disorders in some individuals
• The risk of developing psychotic disorders
• Lung Damage
• Long-term marijuana use can lead to Cannabis Use Disorder (CUD)
• Increased Heart Rate
• Heavy marijuana use can also affect relationships and social life, leading to isolation or strained interactions with others who may not share the same habits.
• Long-term use can lead to dependency, and individuals who stop using marijuana may experience withdrawal symptoms.

If you're wondering whether you or someone you know might have cannabis use disorder, here are some common signs and symptoms to look out for:

• Craving for cannabis.
• Cutting down on other activities in life
• Problems in interpersonal, social, academic, or professional life
• Difficulty in controlling or reducing use
• Extended use despite physical, psychological, and social issues
• Consuming larger amounts of the drug
• Tolerance to cannabis
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms

If you or your loved one is experiencing any of the above, know that there is a road to recovery. At Sober Living, we provide safe and comfortable spaces to recover from cannabis addiction.

Here are some key risk factors for Cannabis Use Disorder (CUD):

• Starting to use at an early age
• Frequency of Use
• Genetics and Family History
• Mental Health Disorders
• Peer Influence
• Environmental Factors
• Significant life stressors, trauma, or unstable social environments
• People who use other substances (alcohol, tobacco, etc.)
• Self-medication
• Lack of Support Systems

Many treatment options are available for CUD, and the best among them are psychotherapies.

Behavioral therapies are the most common treatment for cannabis use disorder and have been shown to help individuals manage cravings, change unhealthy thought patterns, and adopt new coping strategies. It is designed to improve coping skills and reduce the likelihood of relapse.

It helps individuals find their own reasons for making changes and increases motivation to seek treatment and achieve sobriety.

Support groups like Marijuana Anonymous (MA) offer a community-based approach where individuals can share their struggles, successes, and support one another in recovery. Peer counseling provides emotional support and helps individuals stay accountable.

For severe cases, residential treatment programs provide a structured, immersive environment. Outpatient treatment is ideal for those who have mild to moderate cannabis use disorder and prefer a more flexible approach. These programs involve regular therapy sessions, counseling, and support group meetings without requiring a stay at a treatment facility.

Although no medications are currently approved by the FDA specifically for treating Cannabis Use Disorder, research is ongoing. Some medications may be prescribed off-label to manage withdrawal symptoms, cravings, or co-occurring mental health disorders such as anxiety or depression.

These practices help individuals increase self-awareness, manage cravings, and build coping mechanisms for dealing with stress. Regular mindfulness practice can reduce impulsivity and help individuals avoid automatically reaching for cannabis during stressful moments.

The journey to sobriety doesn’t end after the initial treatment phase; ongoing support and proactive strategies are essential for maintaining sobriety and preventing relapse.

Yes, medical marijuana can lead to addiction. Some doctors prescribe marijuana for medical reasons, especially to deal with the side effects after chemotherapy.

There has been evidence that medical marijuana can have negative consequences, especially among those suffering from anxiety and depression. What is worth noting here is that people with anxiety or depression are most vulnerable to developing cannabis use disorder or addiction.

While there is no doubt that medical marijuana has its benefits, the key is to balance its therapeutic effects and the risk of addiction it carries.

If you or a loved one may be suffering from cannabis use disorder, the first step to recovery is identifying it and seeking help for it. There are many paths you can choose for your journey toward sobriety.

• Talk to a Healthcare Professional: A doctor or addiction specialist can assess your situation and recommend treatment options.
• Consider a Treatment Center: Inpatient or outpatient programs provide therapy and support to help you recover.
• Engage in Therapy: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET) can help address underlying issues and build coping strategies.
• Join Support Groups: Groups like Marijuana Anonymous provide community support and accountability.
• Create a Relapse Prevention Plan: Work with a professional to identify triggers and develop strategies to maintain sobriety.
• Incorporate Holistic Approaches: Practices like yoga, mindfulness, and exercise can complement traditional treatments.
• Reach Out to Helplines: SAMHSA offers resources and a confidential helpline (1-800-662-HELP)

If seeking a program designed for lasting recovery and sober living in Los Angeles, then Bridges Sober Living Apartments offers a unique program wherein clients can get one-on-one mentoring with our experienced healthcare specialists and enjoy semi-private rooms designed to balance solitude as well as social support.