Cannabis is commonly known as weed or marijuana. It is the most widely used illicit drug in both the U.S. and the UK. People often smoke cannabis in joints bongs or blunts or they eat it in foods and drink it in teas. Cannabis has a chemical called THC which changes how the mind works and creates the “high” that users look for. Many people think marijuana is safe or can help with health issues but more research shows that using it often or starting at a young age can result in becoming addicted to cannabis. About 11% of users become addicted and this number rises to 16% for those who begin using it as teenagers. This blog explores what cannabis addiction looks like. The warning signs to watch for and the health risks involved or how to seek effective treatment.
What Is Cannabis Use Disorder?
Cannabis Use Disorder (CUD) is a mental health issue where a person has a troubling pattern of using marijuana. This use causes serious problems or makes it hard for them to go about their daily activities. Cannabis Use Disorder (CUD) is a type of Substance Use Disorder (SUD). It usually involves using cannabis products that have a lot of THC which is the chemical that causes the “high” sensation.
Understanding the Difference: Cannabis vs. Marijuana
Cannabis includes all parts of the Cannabis sativa plant like the flowers, stems, leaves, and seeds. However marijuana specifically means cannabis products that have a lot of THC. Not all cannabis is marijuana, but most cases of CUD involve THC containing substances.
Key Features of Cannabis Use Disorder
CUD exists on a spectrum it can be mild or severe. Common features of cannabis use disorder include:
- An intense urge or craving to use cannabis
- Increasing tolerance and requires more to achieve the same effect
- Withdrawal cannabis addiction symptoms such as irritability or anxiety when not using
- Continued use despite negative effects on health or relationships.
Is Cannabis Addictive?
Many people think that cannabis is not addictive but it can be especially addictive if someone uses it often or starts using it when they are young. While addiction is more commonly associated with substances like alcohol or cocaine. Cannabis use can also lead to dependence and addiction in certain individuals.
What the Research Says
Studies estimate that about 1 in 10 adult marijuana users will develop an addiction. This risk increases to 1 in 6 for those who start using cannabis before age 18. People who use cannabis every day are at an even greater risk with 25% to 50% possibly developing a cannabis use disorder.
In 2020 around 14 million people were affected. In the United States 2 million people who are 12 years old or older had a hard time with marijuana addiction. Even though more people are accepting cannabis and it is legal in many places. It still carries serious risks for addiction both in the body and the mind.
8 Warning Signs of Cannabis Addiction
Many people think of marijuana as “safe ” but the truth is that it can lead to abuse and addiction which are often ignored. If you are worried about your own behavior or about someone you care about recognizing the signs of marijuana addiction is the first step to getting better. Common physical and psychological signs are:
- Bloodshot or red eyes
- Dry mouth and increased thirst
- Increased heart rate
- Impaired coordination and slowed reaction time
- Difficulty with memory or concentration
- Anxiety or mood swings
- Lack of motivation or feeling “numb”
- Sleep disturbances or vivid dreams.
What Are the Effects of Cannabis Use?
You might start to feel the effects of cannabis within minutes after using it especially if you smoke it. It might take up to an hour to start working if you eat it or drink it. People often describe the feeling as a “high.” This happens because of THC the main ingredient that moves through your blood to your brain and other areas of your body.
Many users experience changes in mood and perception. You may feel very happy and more relaxed or notice that colors, sounds and time feel different than normal. Your coordination and clear thinking may also be impacted which can make activities like driving or solving problems harder. Some people notice a dry mouth or red eyes and a fast heartbeat or even dizziness. Appetite can change too and you might suddenly feel very hungry or lose interest in food altogether.
Not everyone reacts the same way. Some people feel calm and pain-free while others may become anxious or even fearful. Taking higher doses can cause hallucinations or severe confusion. These effects typically last for a few hours but they can greatly affect how you perform in everyday activities especially when you are at work or driving.
What Are the Cannabis Addiction Treatment Options?
Beating cannabis addiction can seem tough but with the right help you can achieve a long-lasting recovery. Whether you are just starting to seek help or supporting someone else here is a simple overview of the best treatment options that are available right now.
Detoxification
One of the first steps in cannabis addiction treatment is detoxification where you stop using cannabis and allow it to leave your body. This process can be done in a clinic or at home under medical guidance. In some cases doctors may suggest gradually reducing the amount of cannabis you use to ease withdrawal cannabis addiction symptoms.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
After detox therapy becomes the main focus. It helps you recognize and change negative thoughts and habits. CBT helps people learn better ways to deal with stress and things that set them off. Another helpful approach is Motivational Interviewing which encourages you to build strong reasons for quitting and stay committed to your goals.
Conclusion
Getting addicted to cannabis can be tough but it is important to know that getting better is possible. Noticing the early signs of cannabis use disorder is the first step to getting better whether it is for you or someone you love. With the right treatment such as detoxification and cognitive-behavioral therapy overcoming addiction and reclaiming control over your life is achievable. If you or someone you know is having difficulties with cannabis addiction asking for help is the first step towards getting better. Pay attention to the signs and take action now and start your journey towards a healthier and happier life with the best rehab for cannabis addiction.
