With the increasing legalization of cannabis products for medical and recreational use, its public perception as a harmless, non-addictive drug has only grown. However, contrary to popular belief, marijuana use can cause some people to develop a dependency.
Marijuana Addiction: Myth vs. Reality
Marijuana contains delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, a psychoactive compound that interacts with the brain’s endocannabinoid system. While some people can use marijuana without becoming addicted, frequent or heavy use is risky.
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, up to 30% of chronic, heavy cannabis users may become dependent, and those who begin using marijuana before age 18 are four to seven times more likely to have a marijuana use disorder. Over time, marijuana can change your brain chemistry, making it harder for you to function or feel “normal” without it.
Addiction involves a compulsion to use a substance despite its adverse effects. If these behaviors sound familiar, it may be time to honestly assess your relationship with marijuana and consider asking for help.
- Increased tolerance: Needing to consume more marijuana to achieve the same effects as before.
- Withdrawal symptoms: Experiencing symptoms like irritability, anxiety, insomnia, headaches, or cravings when not using marijuana.
- Loss of control: Using marijuana in larger amounts or for longer periods than intended.
- Neglecting responsibilities: Failing to meet obligations at work, school, or home due to marijuana use.
- Relationship strain: Continued use despite conflicts or issues in personal relationships caused by marijuana.
- Spending excessive time and money on marijuana: Spending excessive time or money acquiring, using, or recovering from marijuana.
- Unsuccessful attempts to quit: Repeatedly returning to cannabis use despite efforts to cut back or stop.
The Risks of Using Marijuana
The cannabis industry’s explosive growth has introduced various marijuana products, which are easily available at dispensaries and specialty shops throughout California. However, a lack of regulatory oversight surrounds this growing market, posing significant risks to consumers.
1. High-Potency Strains
Today’s marijuana products often contain significantly higher levels of THC than in the past. These high-potency strains can be especially dangerous, increasing your risk of experiencing acute intoxication and psychiatric symptoms.
2. Unknown Ingredients
Due to limited industry regulations, some marijuana products may contain harmful additives, pesticides, or contaminants. One recent study detected toxic metals like lead, cadmium, arsenic, and mercury in a selection of commercially available CBD products.
3. Lack of Dosing Guidelines
It’s easy to underestimate how much THC you’ve consumed with edibles like gummies, which are slower to take effect. Overconsumption can lead to adverse effects, including anxiety, paranoia, and other mental health challenges. Edibles’ potency and long-lasting effects can catch people off-guard.
How Marijuana Changes Your Brain
THC impacts the brain’s reward system by overstimulating it, leading to feelings of euphoria. Over time, your brain will adapt to regular marijuana, reducing its natural production of endocannabinoid neurotransmitters. It will become harder to feel pleasure or relaxation without the drug, driving continued use and dependency.
Withdrawal symptoms can make it challenging to quit using marijuana after becoming dependent on it.
- Intense cravings for the drug
- Irritability and mood swings
- Insomnia
- Loss of appetite
- Restlessness or anxiety
- Headaches, nausea, or physical discomfort
Recognizing When You Need Help
It’s time to seek professional treatment if your marijuana use has become compulsive and caused problems with your relationships, work, or health. Substance abuse is a complex issue, but Hope Lodge’s experienced staff paves the path to recovery by providing personalized support in a peaceful and serene environment.
We understand how casual use can quickly gain momentum and take over your life. Our programming focuses on identifying and addressing the root causes of dependency, while teaching our clients healthier coping mechanisms for managing stress and anxiety. Contact us today to learn more about our two beautiful California locations.