Many people incorrectly believe that you cannot become addicted to marijuana. This is not true. It’s easily possible to become severely addicted to marijuana and it can result in the same damage to your health and life similar to any other drug.
In this article, you’ll learn the signs and symptoms of marijuana addiction and the treatment options available.
Symptoms and Signs of Marijuana Addiction
There are many signs and symptoms associated with an addiction to marijuana (also known as marijuana use disorder or cannabis use disorder) ranging from physical to mental effects. Below are some of the top signs:
Anxiety
Individuals who regularly consume marijuana can experience heightened levels of anxiety.
Nausea
Some people experience nausea (or even vomiting) from marijuana abuse.
Depression
Excessive marijuana use can lead to depression.
Poor Memory
Difficulty remembering events or specific points in time is also a symptom of marijuana addiction.
The above symptoms can result from both medical marijuana and recreational marijuana.
Additional Symptoms
While the above-mentioned symptoms do occur in many cases from smoking marijuana, there are several other symptoms that can appear when someone is addicted to marijuana. It’s also important to note that not everyone will display the same signs and behaviors of this type of drug abuse – it’s often a mix of symptoms.
- Weakened immune system
- Loss of interest in important social hobbies and activities
- Losing a job
- Paranoia
- Difficulty focusing or concentrating
- Breathing difficulties
- Elevated heart rate
- Feeling you need more marijuana
- Developing a marijuana dependence and tolerance
Long-Term Effects of Marijuana Addiction
Using marijuana frequently over time can lead to the below health issues and social problems:
- Difficulty with mental processing and becoming at risk for mental disorders
- Lack of self-esteem
- Losing a job
- Unable to maintain relationships or friendships
- Financial struggles
- Potentially causing harm to the heart and/or lungs
- Experiencing marijuana withdrawal symptoms
- Irritability
If you smoke marijuana, you are at risk of experiencing addiction and the above effects.
Treatment for Marijuana Addiction
Residential treatment is an effective form of treatment for individuals struggling with an addiction to marijuana. Also known as inpatient treatment, individuals live on-site at the addiction treatment facility, receiving 24/7 around-the-clock care and participating in evidence-based therapies. Outpatient treatment can also be effective if the individual’s addiction is mild and they have a safe environment to live in.
The first step of treatment is often detox, followed by a combination of therapies. Therapies can range from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Enhancement Therapy, mindfulness programs, and dual diagnosis treatment.
Start Your Substance Abuse Treatment Today at Luxe Treatment Center
At Luxe Treatment Center, we focus on utilizing evidence-based humanistic therapies and treatment plans that take a whole-person approach with our clients rather than simply treating people with addictions. If you’re ready to take the next step toward drug and alcohol addiction recovery, our team is here to help you begin healing.
