In This Blog
- Weed to some people, can be addictive, especially when used regularly
- Different levels of cannabis use disorder: Mild, moderate, or severe
- Many popular myths hide the reality of the dangers of marijuana use
- Long-term use can have an impact on mental health, memory and motivation
- Professional support can help in regaining control and balance in their lives
Is Weed Really Addictive?
Marijuana is looked upon as harmless, natural, or even good and so this gives a feeling to many people that it cannot be addictive.
As social acceptance has grown, it has downplayed or ignored risks of regular or heavy use of weed. However, it claims in medical research that marijuana can be addictive to some people, especially people who used to use marijuana too often or used marijuana to deal with their stress and feelings.
Addiction may not appear so dramatic and extreme. It may start quietly, such as using more weed than they planned, relying on it to relax/sleep or being uncomfortable when they don’t have it.
Over a period of time, this pattern can evolve into an issue of cannabis use disorder, which is a recognized medical condition and can influence the operation of the brain and behavior.
This article explains the science and truth behind weed addiction in simple and easy-to-understand terms.
You will learn about how marijuana affects the brain, what addiction actually is, some common marijuana myths and facts, some warning signs to watch out for as well as how treatment can help to get people’s lives back under control.
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What Does It Mean to Be Addicted to Weed?
Addiction to weed does not seem like an indicator of a person who has failed or has a lack of willpower.
Addiction is a medical condition of the alteration of the reward system and the decision-making system of the brain.
When a person is having continuous use of marijuana even after having negative effects on their health, work or relationships, it might be an indication of a problem.
Clinically this condition is referred to as cannabis use disorder (CUD). It occurs on a spectrum, which means that the symptoms can range from slight to severe.
Mild cases may involve cravings or difficulty cutting back, whereas severe cases involve a dependence, tolerance and withdrawal symptoms when use it’s discontinued.
The fact that the strongest psychoactive ingredient which exists in marijuana is THC. Repeated exposure to THC can cause the person to develop a need for dependence on THC, to receive pleasure, to feel calm or to feel relief.
With time, the normal activities are not going to seem like a reward and eventually, it will become more and more difficult to function without marijuana.
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Battling with Drug and Alcohol Addition? Remember, you are not alone and we are here to help you!
Common Myths About Weed and Addiction
Misunderstandings about marijuana may delay people in knowing when their usage scales are unhealthy.
Myth vs Reality Table
Myth | Reality |
Weed isn’t addictive | A few users become addicted to cannabis (cannabis use disorder). |
It’s safer than other drugs | Despite that, it can have a detrimental effect on mental health |
You can quit anytime | Many people struggle to stop |
Withdrawal isn’t real |
These myths are responsible for preventing people from getting help in early stages. Understanding the facts is what enables people to be able to do the right thing and recognize the warning signs quickly.
Signs and Symptoms of Cannabis Use Disorder
Cannabis use disorder can affect one’s emotions, ability to interact and finish daily activities. Symptoms may be insidious in onset and progressive.
Common Signs
- Using marijuana more than what was planned or longer than planned
- Compelling urges or cravings towards using weed
- Difficulty to decrease or quit
- Failure to show up at work, school and family obligations
- Continued use in spite of having relationship or health problems
- Requiring more marijuana to get the same effects
- Feeling anxious or irritable or being restless without weed
Additional warning signs could be memory problems, lack of motivation, mood swings, loss of interest in the activities that were once liked.
What Causes Marijuana Addiction?
There is no one reason that marijuana addiction occurs. Instead, it is developed by some combination of biological, psychological and environmental elements.
THC causes an increase in the level of dopamine in the brain making pleasant and relaxing feelings occur. With regular use the brain may become less responsive and tolerance and need for a higher dose of the drug.
Genetics also play a role. Due to the traits that they inherited, some people are more likely to become addicted than others. Mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression or trauma can also be a risk factor for this, particularly with the use of marijuana as a coping mechanism.
Depending on the age of the first use, frequency of use, and potency of the products used, the chances of dependence increase.
Quick Fact (U.S. Data)
More than 16 million people in the US were struggling with cannabis use disorder in a recent year.
Pro Tip
Regular daily marijuana use significantly increases the risk of dependence.
Health Risks Linked to Long-Term Weed Use
While marijuana may bring short-term relaxation to its users, some long-term marijuana users, or heavy marijuana users, may encounter both mental and physical issues.
Potential Risks
- Excessive anxiety and/or depression
- Problems in remembering and paying attention
- Decreased motivation and low-level productivity
- Disturbances in sleeping and tiredness
- The risk for some people to have psychosis is increased
In the younger users, marijuana could affect brain development, learning, and emotional regulation. In the long run, all these effects can impact academic, professional, and personal growth.
Treatment Options for Marijuana Addiction
Cannabis use disorder is treatable and it is possible to recover. Treatment is based on improvement of general well-being and not just stopping the use of marijuana.
Common Treatment Approaches
- Detox support to manage withdrawal symptoms
- Outpatient counseling for flexibility
- Intensive outpatient programs for structured care
- Inpatient or residential treatment for severe cases
- Evidence-based therapies such as CBT and DBT
Treatment often includes addressing the underlying issues of mental health, including developing healthy coping skills and relapse prevention.
Need help with marijuana addiction? Call DeLand Treatment Solutions today
Prevention and Healthy Coping Strategies
The process of stopping addiction to marijuana is through awareness and balance.
Practical Tips
- Abstaining from weed as a stress or emotional control
- Put some clear and personal boundaries around use
- Find out healthy coping mechanisms like exercise or meditation
- Look after mental health issues at an early stage
- Seek support if use of the drug seems to be difficult to control
Strong routines, strong relationships and the skills in dealing with stress decreases the need for substances.
Support and Recovery Solutions
DeLand Treatment Solutions provides compassionate, evidence-based care for individuals struggling with marijuana use. Their team offers confidential assessments, personalized treatment plans, and ongoing support designed to meet each person’s unique needs.
Whether someone is seeking treatment or simply exploring options, DeLand Treatment Solutions offers guidance in a supportive, judgment-free environment. You can reach their team directly at (386) 866-8689 to discuss next steps.
