Marijuana has a long history of use throughout the world and is one of the most commonly used drugs worldwide. In the United States, marijuana proponents have long lobbied for its legalization, and its use is now legal on various levels in most states. Unlike alcohol or other drugs, marijuana alone does not carry the risks of overdose or death. However, it is not a harmless drug. Chronic, heavy marijuana use can lead to cannabis use disorder, which requires professional marijuana addiction treatment.
At Spokane Falls Recovery Center, we have years of experience that enable our addiction treatment specialists to recognize when the use of marijuana has transitioned from recreational to abusive or addictive. When you acknowledge that your marijuana use has taken over your life, reach out to our team at 844.962.2775.
Is Weed Addictive?
Compared to alcohol or illicit drugs such as cocaine, heroin, or opioids, marijuana has a low addiction rate. However, heavy use can become problematic and lead to cannabis use disorder, developing into addiction in severe cases. Current research indicates that a significant portion of marijuana users have some degree of cannabis use disorder. When you start smoking weed, the younger you are, the more likely your use will become problematic down the road. Furthermore, individuals who start smoking weed at a young age are more likely to develop other substance use disorders.
Cannabis use disorder is associated with dependence that leads to symptoms of withdrawal when not using weed. The most commonly reported marijuana withdrawal symptoms include:
- Irritability and moodiness
- Difficulty sleeping
- Cravings
- Anxiety
- Restlessness
- Decreased appetite
- Various physical discomforts
Cannabis use disorder occurs when the brain adapts to large amounts of the drug that impact the body’s natural endocannabinoid system. Nearly 50 million Americans aged 12 and over reported using marijuana. Of those, just over 14 million had a cannabis use disorder.
Do You Need Marijuana Addiction Treatment?
Cannabis use disorder is the continued use of cannabis despite the distress, consequences, or impairment it causes. Depending upon the number of symptoms an individual has, cannabis use disorder is classified as either mild, moderate, or severe. Most people have difficulty being objective and honest about their level of marijuana use. When thinking about whether or not you need treatment for your marijuana use, it can be helpful to consider the following warning signs:
- Having an increased tolerance or needing more to get the same desired effects
- Inability to cut down or discontinue use despite attempts to do so
- Using marijuana to escape your problems
- Spending the majority of your time trying to get, use, or recover from marijuana
- Having cravings for marijuana or experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not using
- Ignoring responsibilities, including work, school, and self-care
- Continuing to use marijuana despite negative consequences
The ongoing legalization of marijuana for recreational use is cited by many as evidence that the use of marijuana is safe and without consequence. However, this is not true. Many people can smoke weed recreationally without developing cannabis use disorder, but others cannot.
Overcome Addiction at Spokane Falls Recovery Center
The debate over marijuana use has gone on for decades and will continue long into the future. There is a plethora of research supporting the benefits of the medical use of marijuana. However, there is an equal amount of research pointing to the dangers and consequences of prolonged heavy marijuana use.
If your marijuana use is causing problems in your life, and you are ready to seek treatment, reach out to Spokane Falls Recovery Center. We provide multiple levels of treatment and can develop a treatment plan tailored to meet your unique needs and goals for recovery. You can get started by reaching out to us through our online form or calling 844.962.2775 to learn about our programs.
