What Is Marijuana, and How Does It Affect the Brain?
Marijuana, often referred to as Cannabis Sativa, is the leading type of herb, and it serves as a leading psychotropic substance. The main ingredient of cannabis is a compound called tetrahydrocannabinol, commonly known as THC.
This compound attaches itself to the endocannabinoid system in the brain and causes euphoric effects such as relaxation and distortion of perception. Moreover, these effects have resulted in an increased recreational and medical use of marijuana.
However, frequent use of marijuana can generate a dependency for the user. Chronic use of THC is known to alter the brain’s chemical response, making further use more enjoyable. Gradually, an individual tends to develop tolerance, which means that to achieve the same effects, one has to consume more significant quantities of the drug.
Over time, this dosage adjustment will likely change the brain’s chemistry, just like other addictive substances, making it harder to say no to drugs, resulting in cannabis use disorder (CUD).
The Science Behind Cannabis Use Disorder
Cannabis Use Disorder is an ailment that affects a person’s life owing to excessive use of marijuana. The DSM-5 is explained through a variety of symptoms, cannabis control, and usage power through symptoms for control. Such as people being unable to limit the amount of cannabis they are consuming, intense cravings, and withdrawal signs like being in a sick state that one cannot get rid of.
The last ten years have seen a boom in the breeding of cannabis strains with much higher THC levels than were previously available. The addiction risk, coupled with the sheer amount of cannabis available today, places addiction-afflicted young adults and adolescents in particular danger.
Research demonstrates that cannabis dependency is augmented due to genetics and biological factors that are deregulated along with complex mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression, and early use of cannabis.
Debunking Myths About Marijuana Addiction
Marijuana may not have a physical dependency, but there is a psychological dependency. Most users have a hard time stopping the use of marijuana due to the cravings, withdrawal symptoms, and behavior associated with it.
The myth relates to a common misconception that marijuana consumption enhances or improves one’s state of mind. As pointed out by some users, it does help in managing stress and pain. Still, prolonged use can aggravate anxiety and depression and, in worst-case scenarios, psychosis among patients who are already vulnerable.
The expression “there is always an option to quit” is equally false, as most under-recoveries describe having a hard time giving up due to relationships, workplace, and mental health issues.
Effects of Marijuana Use and Dependence
Short-Term and Long-Term Effects of Marijuana Use
Some effects are unchanged regardless of the individual’s frequency or intensity of use. Consider, for example, the change in a user’s perception during a euphoric high state.
Additionally, many marijuana smokers claim to have some amnesic effects together with a heightened appetite, often referred to as “the munchies.” Some other users, which include those that have a strikingly higher amount of the THC compound in their bodies, may feel some degree of dizziness, anxiety, or even paranoia
The side effects of cannabis consumption are rather extreme and overly severe. One study claims that the extensive usage of cannabis leads to the decline of an individual’s cognitive abilities, and found that it is likely that their attention and memory are significantly impaired.
Further, chronic marijuana users also develop motivation syndrome, which leads to other ailments. Some users have cannabis hyperemesis syndrome, which is defined by extreme nausea and happens after excessive consumption of marijuana.
Can You Overdose on Marijuana?
Marijuana is way less detrimental than alcohol or prescription opioids, as overeating will not have fatal consequences. However, overindulging can lead to extreme discomfort called “greening out.” The signs that someone might be overdosing on marijuana can be narrowed down to extreme hallucinations, paranoia, a racing heartbeat, nausea, and vomiting. There are some rare cases where an excess amount of THC can induce a temporary psychotic state, which may need to be treated by a professional.
The Impact of Marijuana on Mental Health
Research indicates that there is a strong correlation linking the consumption of cannabis and psychological disorders. Some people do suggest that cannabis helps treat anxiety and depression, and relief might be seen. However, symptom aggravation over time is not uncommon as well.
Furthermore, the persistent use of marijuana dramatically increases the chance of getting schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders, especially among those predisposed to having mental disorders in their families.
Similarly to alcohol, cannabis has the capability of changing one’s sleeping patterns. A few users state that cannabis enables them to sleep better, but in the long run, habitual use can erode the quality of sleep. This cycle ultimately results in mental disorders, irritability, and exhaustion.
Recognizing the Signs of Marijuana Addiction
Symptoms of Cannabis Use Disorder
Revealing marijuana addiction could be difficult because it usually occurs over a long period. Some users might start as mere recreational users. However, their ability to abstain from using marijuana gets worse over time as they become more dependent. Addiction is well known to have the following symptoms:
- Consuming cannabis more often and in larger quantities than planned.
- Possessing intense urges to consume marijuana.
- Using cannabis regardless of all the adverse effects experienced in personal interactions, work, or health.
- Having symptoms associated with withdrawal when trying to stop using cannabis.
Behavioral and Emotional Indicators of Dependence
As dependence on marijuana increases, there will undoubtedly be some shifts in behavior, such as withdrawal from social interactions. Many would rather indulge in drugs than spend with family and friends, which would lead to a loss of interest in several activities. In addition, there is likely to be a tremendous degree of irritability, anxiety, mood swings, and other signs of dependency.
Understanding Marijuana Withdrawal Symptoms
The time spent on cannabis sativa can be prolonged easily. Still, in the end, withdrawal symptoms are always encountered, such as agitation, insomnia, mood swings, and lack of appetite. Difficulties when stopping THC are very likely. However, most people are lucky because the symptoms tend to resolve in about one or two weeks.
Marijuana Addiction Treatment Options
Comprehensive Rehabilitation Programs
Fighting against cannabis use disorder is made easy with the availability of rehabilitation centers. Such centers have controlled environments that allow patients to enjoy therapies and medical treatments immediately. These centers have programs allowing their patients to treat themselves while doing their daily activities.
Support group organizations like Marijuana Anonymous (MA) help recover the community affected by dependency issues on marijuana. Overcoming marijuana dependence issues features prominently in the treatment plan. Marijuana addiction treatment consists of therapeutic work, counseling for marijuana abuse, lifestyle changes, and behavioral modification.
Therapy for Cannabis Addiction
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is among the best methods of marijuana addiction treatment. This therapy allows behavioral and mental health professionals to track patients’ progress and formulate interventions that help them manage their impulses. Motivational interviewing (MI) is another technique. Its objective is to inspire the subjects more towards cessation.
Detoxification and Managing Withdrawal
The tactics for withdrawal, specifically for marijuana use, can exhibit a severe form of detoxification. Accumulating sleep, optimum exercise, proper nutrition, and hydration certainly aid in therapy. In more severe cases of psychological withdrawal symptoms, physicians tend to prescribe medications for anxiety and sleep for relief.
Choosing the Right Marijuana Addiction Treatment Program
Evaluating Rehabilitation Centers
To facilitate recovery, an individual must select a clinic that fits them and provides therapy and aftercare. Clinics that focus on marijuana dependence and offer a dual diagnosis for some comorbid conditions are much better.
Personalized Treatment Approaches
Traditional practices such as yoga, meditation, and even exercise therapy can aid some people in more ways than one. Any treatment plan focusing on the use of marijuana must take into account a person’s unique life situation, lifestyle, and even psychological background.
Key Factors to Consider
Different factors come into play when analyzing a rehab center, including their location, cost, and the therapist’s experience level. Some people prefer treatment centers close to their place of accommodation, while others feel that relocating aids in concentrating on rehab. Additionally, the location makes it easier to calculate the amount of insurance coverage and the facility’s expenses.
Marijuana Addiction Recovery: Success Stories and Long-Term Support
Recovery Success Rates and Relapse Prevention
Studies show that rehabilitation patterns are incredibly effective in achieving long-term sobriety. Those who participate in additional therapy sessions and support group meetings are changing their lifestyle and have a much higher probability of achieving long-term sobriety.
Building a Strong Support System
The likelihood of relapse decreases when an individual has a supportive network. Friends, family, and coworkers can provide motivation and closely monitor an individual during healing.
Furthermore, the individual’s life can and should be structured in a manner that helps them curtail or overcome the use of marijuana while staying active and participating in other healthy activities.
Take the First Step Toward Recovery
Help is certainly available if you or someone close to you is struggling with marijuana addiction. Looking for rehabilitation is the initial measure to take to recover your lifestyle. With adequate resourcing, caring, and a strong willingness to change, addiction can be dealt with.
FAQs
- Is marijuana addiction real?
Addiction to Marijuana is real. It is categorized as Cannabis Use Disorder treatment (CUD) in the DSM-5. This type of disorder may not cause a substantial physical dependency like opioids do. Still, it can lead to a psychological addiction to marijuana, which can inflict cravings and withdrawal symptoms and challenge people’s abilities to quit.
- What are the common withdrawal symptoms of marijuana?
Symptoms associated with the withdrawal of a drug may show signs of irritability, anxiety, a disturbed sleep cycle, restlessness, loss of appetite, mood swings, etc. Such symptoms often surface in the initial week after quitting and disappear within one to two weeks.
- Can you recover from marijuana addiction without rehab?
A handful of people are capable of quitting marijuana cold turkey. Still, most will require assistance from professional support via therapy, support groups, or participation in structured marijuana addiction treatment programs. Different therapies, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT,) focus on triggers and coping strategies.
- How long does it take to detox from marijuana?
Detox protocols differ based on usage history, metabolic rate, and body fat composition. Although it may take several weeks for THC to leave the body entirely, the majority of its withdrawal symptoms can be managed within a week and a half.
- What are the best treatment options for marijuana addiction?
Effective treatment options include inpatient rehab, outpatient therapy, behavioral counseling, Marijuana abuse counseling (CBT, Motivational Interviewing), and support groups like Marijuana Anonymous (MA). Personalized marijuana addiction treatment plans increase the chances of long-term recovery.
