What Are the Signs of Marijuana Addiction?
Marijuana use disorder is when a person is unable to control their use of marijuana or cannabis despite its negative effects. Despite experiencing different problems because of using the drug, they are unable to physically stop. It can affect their health, relationships, and overall well-being.
This article will look at the different signs of marijuana abuse and the factors that contribute to its prevalence.
Signs and Symptoms of Marijuana Abuse
A person who is abusing marijuana may show different signs and symptoms that they are using the drug. Those with more severe addictions are more likely to exhibit more extreme symptoms.
Physical Signs
When a person takes marijuana, it affects their appearance and bodily functions. Physical signs of marijuana abuse include:
- Bloodshot eyes from the drug dilating blood vessels in the eyes
- Dry mouth that causes persistent thirst
- Fatigue, where users may feel lethargic or overly relaxed
- Increased appetite, often called “the munchies”
- Poor coordination, which can result in impaired motor skills
Behavioural Signs
Changes in behaviour may also indicate that a person is abusing marijuana. Those who abuse marijuana may show the following behavioural signs:
- Sudden changes in activities
- Loss of interest in hobbies they previously enjoyed
- Avoiding responsibilities just to use marijuana
- Being secretive about marijuana use
- Spending money on marijuana, even if it’s causing financial problems
Psychological Symptoms
Constant marijuana abuse will affect a person’s emotions and cognitive function. Some of the psychological symptoms of marijuana abuse are:
- Mood swings that lead to rapid shifts between euphoria, irritability, and sadness
- Heightened anxiety, especially when the drug is taken at higher doses
- Irritability that may arise when a person cannot access marijuana
- Lack of motivation and feeling uninterested in achieving goals
- Difficulty focusing that makes it harder to complete different tasks
- Memory problems that make it more difficult to learn and retain information
What Is Marijuana?
Marijuana refers to the dried leaves and flowering tops of the cannabis plant. In many cases, marijuana is used interchangeably with cannabis. While they may refer to the same drug, cannabis refers to all products that come from the Cannabis sativa plant.
When a person takes marijuana or cannabis, they feel the drug’s psychoactive effects. The drug affects the body’s central nervous system, and it’s known to make a person feel more mellow and relaxed. It’s also used in various forms, such as smoking, vaporising, and ingestion.
Although marijuana has been shown to have therapeutic effects, do not attempt to take marijuana without a doctor’s recommendation. Like other drugs, marijuana will have varying effects on different people. Even if one person has a good experience with the drug, it’s not a guarantee that it will also yield the same effects on others.
Increased THC Concentration
One of the reasons why it can be difficult to gauge the safety of marijuana sold on the market right now is the lack of standardised THC levels. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is one of marijuana’s main active components. It’s the component that can make a person feel the “high” associated with marijuana use.
As more companies sell marijuana and other byproducts of the cannabis plant, regulation of THC content becomes more difficult. There is a high chance that today’s marijuana products are more potent than past cannabis products.
Higher THC concentrations mean that a person will experience more intense psychoactive effects. It can result in people experiencing more pronounced feelings of euphoria. The intensified highs also mean that the negative effects like anxiety and paranoia are amplified. Products with potent THC levels also put people at risk of overdose.
More potent marijuana products may also increase the risk of substance use disorder. People who take these products are more likely to develop a tolerance, which means they need higher doses of marijuana to feel the same effects. This leads to dependence or addiction to marijuana.
Approaching cannabis use with caution is important, regardless of whether its use is recreational or medical. Many risks come with taking the drug, and proper education and guidance are necessary for safety.
Is Marijuana Addictive?
People who use marijuana can become addicted to it. Studies show that 10% of marijuana users may develop an addiction. Those who start using marijuana at a younger age are also at a higher risk of developing an addiction to the drug.
The reason why marijuana can be addictive is because of the presence of THC. THC can stimulate the release of dopamine, which is the neurotransmitter that’s responsible for giving feelings of pleasure and satisfaction. When a person becomes accustomed to the artificially induced dopamine release, it becomes more difficult to function without the drug.
In addition, marijuana can also be addictive because of the habits people form surrounding it. Many people may habitually smoke marijuana when they’re in social settings or with friends. This association can make it difficult for a person to adjust to their routines without marijuana.
Effects of Marijuana Abuse
When a person abuses marijuana, they will experience different side effects.
Short-Term Effects
When a person takes marijuana, they will experience these short-term effects:
- Sense of relaxation
- Altered perception
- Increased appetite
- Difficulty thinking and focusing
- Poor memory
- Dizziness
Long-term Effects
People who abuse marijuana for long periods may be affected by the following long-term effects:
- Cognitive impairment
- Mental health problems
- Respiratory problems (if marijuana is smoked)
- Motivational difficulties
- Dependence and addiction
Marijuana Withdrawal Symptoms
Marijuana withdrawal happens when a person tries to quit the drug after prolonged use. These symptoms happen because the body has gotten used to marijuana’s presence, and without the drug, it becomes more difficult to partake in daily activities.
Some symptoms of marijuana withdrawal include:
- Anxiety
- Restlessness
- Disturbed sleep
- Depressed mood
- Loss of appetite
- Cravings for more marijuana
Although marijuana withdrawal symptoms aren’t as life-threatening as other harmful substances, they shouldn’t be taken lightly. Medically assisted detox is highly recommended, and it’s never advised to try and detox from marijuana alone.
Professionals can monitor a patient’s vital signs and prescribe medications for co-occurring disorders. They can also provide therapies to help address the psychological effects of withdrawal. The presence of a medical professional can make the detox process safer and more comfortable.
Marijuana Addiction Treatment
Marijuana addiction treatment will be a combination of different therapies and modalities. An addiction specialist will assess a client’s condition and overall health to provide a personalised program.
People who need structured treatment for cannabis use disorder may opt to go to rehab. During rehab, clients will go through therapies that help address the root of their addiction. Therapies like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy aim to point out negative thought patterns and behaviours that lead to addiction so that clients can develop healthy coping mechanisms to overcome them.
Rehab centres also integrate holistic therapies into treatment so that people addicted to cannabis can go through a more well-rounded recovery process. They also connect clients to support groups and aftercare programs to help maintain sobriety.
Get Help for Marijuana Addiction
Marijuana addiction is a serious problem that can affect a person’s physical and mental health. Those who struggle with marijuana abuse are recommended to seek professional treatment. During professional treatment, people can receive the proper guidance to successfully overcome marijuana addiction.
At Orchid, we offer professional treatment for people struggling with substance use disorder, such as marijuana addiction. Our team has years of experience helping those who want to live a substance-free life achieve their sobriety goals. To learn more about our services, you may contact us today. What Are the Signs of Marijuana Addiction?
Marijuana use disorder is when a person is unable to control their use of marijuana or cannabis despite its negative effects. Despite experiencing different problems because of using the drug, they are unable to physically stop. It can affect their health, relationships, and overall well-being.
This article will look at the different signs of marijuana abuse and the factors that contribute to its prevalence.
Signs and Symptoms of Marijuana Abuse
A person who is abusing marijuana may show different signs and symptoms that they are using the drug. Those with more severe addictions are more likely to exhibit more extreme symptoms.
Physical Signs
When a person takes marijuana, it affects their appearance and bodily functions. Physical signs of marijuana abuse include:
- Bloodshot eyes from the drug dilating blood vessels in the eyes
- Dry mouth that causes persistent thirst
- Fatigue, where users may feel lethargic or overly relaxed
- Increased appetite, often called “the munchies”
- Poor coordination, which can result in impaired motor skills
Behavioural Signs
Changes in behaviour may also indicate that a person is abusing marijuana. Those who abuse marijuana may show the following behavioural signs:
- Sudden changes in activities
- Loss of interest in hobbies they previously enjoyed
- Avoiding responsibilities just to use marijuana
- Being secretive about marijuana use
- Spending money on marijuana, even if it’s causing financial problems
Psychological Symptoms
Constant marijuana abuse will affect a person’s emotions and cognitive function. Some of the psychological symptoms of marijuana abuse are:
- Mood swings that lead to rapid shifts between euphoria, irritability, and sadness
- Heightened anxiety, especially when the drug is taken at higher doses
- Irritability that may arise when a person cannot access marijuana
- Lack of motivation and feeling uninterested in achieving goals
- Difficulty focusing that makes it harder to complete different tasks
- Memory problems that make it more difficult to learn and retain information
What Is Marijuana?
Marijuana refers to the dried leaves and flowering tops of the cannabis plant. In many cases, marijuana is used interchangeably with cannabis. While they may refer to the same drug, cannabis refers to all products that come from the Cannabis sativa plant.
When a person takes marijuana or cannabis, they feel the drug’s psychoactive effects. The drug affects the body’s central nervous system, and it’s known to make a person feel more mellow and relaxed. It’s also used in various forms, such as smoking, vaporising, and ingestion.
Although marijuana has been shown to have therapeutic effects, do not attempt to take marijuana without a doctor’s recommendation. Like other drugs, marijuana will have varying effects on different people. Even if one person has a good experience with the drug, it’s not a guarantee that it will also yield the same effects on others.
Increased THC Concentration
One of the reasons why it can be difficult to gauge the safety of marijuana sold on the market right now is the lack of standardised THC levels. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is one of marijuana’s main active components. It’s the component that can make a person feel the “high” associated with marijuana use.
As more companies sell marijuana and other byproducts of the cannabis plant, regulation of THC content becomes more difficult. There is a high chance that today’s marijuana products are more potent than past cannabis products.
Higher THC concentrations mean that a person will experience more intense psychoactive effects. It can result in people experiencing more pronounced feelings of euphoria. The intensified highs also mean that the negative effects like anxiety and paranoia are amplified. Products with potent THC levels also put people at risk of overdose.
More potent marijuana products may also increase the risk of substance use disorder. People who take these products are more likely to develop a tolerance, which means they need higher doses of marijuana to feel the same effects. This leads to dependence or addiction to marijuana.
Approaching cannabis use with caution is important, regardless of whether its use is recreational or medical. Many risks come with taking the drug, and proper education and guidance are necessary for safety.
Is Marijuana Addictive?
People who use marijuana can become addicted to it. Studies show that 10% of marijuana users may develop an addiction. Those who start using marijuana at a younger age are also at a higher risk of developing an addiction to the drug.
The reason why marijuana can be addictive is because of the presence of THC. THC can stimulate the release of dopamine, which is the neurotransmitter that’s responsible for giving feelings of pleasure and satisfaction. When a person becomes accustomed to the artificially induced dopamine release, it becomes more difficult to function without the drug.
In addition, marijuana can also be addictive because of the habits people form surrounding it. Many people may habitually smoke marijuana when they’re in social settings or with friends. This association can make it difficult for a person to adjust to their routines without marijuana.
Effects of Marijuana Abuse
When a person abuses marijuana, they will experience different side effects.
Short-Term Effects
When a person takes marijuana, they will experience these short-term effects:
- Sense of relaxation
- Altered perception
- Increased appetite
- Difficulty thinking and focusing
- Poor memory
- Dizziness
Long-term Effects
People who abuse marijuana for long periods may be affected by the following long-term effects:
- Cognitive impairment
- Mental health problems
- Respiratory problems (if marijuana is smoked)
- Motivational difficulties
- Dependence and addiction
Marijuana Withdrawal Symptoms
Marijuana withdrawal happens when a person tries to quit the drug after prolonged use. These symptoms happen because the body has gotten used to marijuana’s presence, and without the drug, it becomes more difficult to partake in daily activities.
Some symptoms of marijuana withdrawal include:
- Anxiety
- Restlessness
- Disturbed sleep
- Depressed mood
- Loss of appetite
- Cravings for more marijuana
Although marijuana withdrawal symptoms aren’t as life-threatening as other harmful substances, they shouldn’t be taken lightly. Medically assisted detox is highly recommended, and it’s never advised to try and detox from marijuana alone.
Professionals can monitor a patient’s vital signs and prescribe medications for co-occurring disorders. They can also provide therapies to help address the psychological effects of withdrawal. The presence of a medical professional can make the detox process safer and more comfortable.
Marijuana Addiction Treatment
Marijuana addiction treatment will be a combination of different therapies and modalities. An addiction specialist will assess a client’s condition and overall health to provide a personalised program.
People who need structured treatment for cannabis use disorder may opt to go to rehab. During rehab, clients will go through therapies that help address the root of their addiction. Therapies like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy aim to point out negative thought patterns and behaviours that lead to addiction so that clients can develop healthy coping mechanisms to overcome them.
Rehab centres also integrate holistic therapies into treatment so that people addicted to cannabis can go through a more well-rounded recovery process. They also connect clients to support groups and aftercare programs to help maintain sobriety.
Get Help for Marijuana Addiction
Marijuana addiction is a serious problem that can affect a person’s physical and mental health. Those who struggle with marijuana abuse are recommended to seek professional treatment. During professional treatment, people can receive the proper guidance to successfully overcome marijuana addiction.
At Orchid, we offer professional treatment for people struggling with substance use disorder, such as marijuana addiction. Our team has years of experience helping those who want to live a substance-free life achieve their sobriety goals. To learn more about our services, you may contact us today.
