Marijuana is a drug often referred to as the “gateway drug.” The drug itself is not known to be significantly addictive, but it can lead to problematic use or marijuana use disorder. Only in severe cases is addiction actually likely, and when this does happen, it is related to what are called process addictions (for example, gambling or sex addiction). Abuse of marijuana can cause severe issues in an individual’s personal, professional, and social life. Thus, if you or a loved one seems to be struggling with marijuana use, it may make sense to reach out to Oceanfront Recovery to learn more about our marijuana rehab center.
Marijuana Addiction: Is It Real?
Marijuana addiction can occur in severe cases. Usually, marijuana use is more of dependence rather than an addiction. With dependence, a person may have withdrawal symptoms when they stop taking the drug.
This varies from addiction because addictions have psychological involvement. Someone dependent on a drug may not feel the urge to take more, but they need to do so if they want to avoid withdrawal symptoms because of their dependency.
When Does Marijuana Use Become Abuse?
Marijuana use turns into abuse when people can’t stop using the drug even when they want to. Drug use may interfere with other parts of their life.
Overall, marijuana addiction is rare. Very few people develop a physical dependency on the substance. However, this doesn’t mean that individuals can struggle with a psychological dependency. When this is the case, marijuana use disorder has taken hold.
What Are the Symptoms of Marijuana Use Disorder?
Marijuana use disorder has many symptoms. Some of the symptoms used to diagnose the condition include:
- Recurrent marijuana use in dangerous situations
- Cravings or a strong need to continue using marijuana
- Using more of the drug than intended over long periods of time
- Withdrawal syndrome, or taking the drug to avoid withdrawal symptoms
- Recurrent use that causes the client to miss work, school, or other responsibilities
- A need for increased levels of marijuana to achieve the same effects
Like any other dependency or addiction, marijuana use disorder has the potential to lead to serious problems in a person’s life. If it’s not controlled, there is a potential for the condition to become more severe over time.
Fortunately, it is nearly impossible to overdose on marijuana. However, if it is purchased on the street, there is a risk that it could be mixed with other substances.
What Are Some Marijuana Addiction Treatments?
For those who do have marijuana use disorder, there are some available marijuana addiction treatments. Some of them include:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy
- Dialectical behavior therapy
- Motivational enhancement therapy
These services focus on helping the person using marijuana get back into control over the addiction or dependency. They will learn new coping mechanisms, set up goals, discuss their responsibilities and even start tapering programs or other ways to reduce and eliminate marijuana use in their life.
There are several options in terms of the kinds of programs people can enter. There are inpatient programs, outpatient programs, group therapy sessions, individual sessions, partial hospitalization programs, and others to consider.
Get Help for Marijuana Addiction with Marijuana Addiction Treatments at Oceanfront Recovery
Living with an addiction or dependency on a drug changes your life. It makes it harder to cope with the day-to-day challenges and can become overwhelming. Drug addiction treatment helps clients overcome these substance use issues to go back to doing the things they love.
At Oceanfront Recovery, we are here to help you or someone you love overcome marijuana addiction. Contact us today at any time by calling 877.279.1777. Our team would be happy to speak with you about the different marijuana addiction treatments we offer. This is the first step toward a sober, healthy life.
