Marijuana Addiction Signs, Symptoms, Treatment & Recovery

Some varieties of cannabis plants are also known as hemp, although “hemp” more commonly refers to a fiber derived from such plants. Historically, hemp fiber has been used to make rope, paper, fabrics and sail canvas. Today, hemp fiber is used to create concrete-like blocks for construction projects, bioplastics, jewelry and biofuels. In colonial America, hemp production was required by English rule. At that time, hemp plants were low in tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the active component of cannabis, and crops were valued for their role in industry.

Daily marijuana use outpaces daily drinking in the US, a new study says

The road to recovery from marijuana addiction will likely have many ups and downs. Many people who try to quit smoking pot for the first time will fail and may have to try again, possibly a few times, before they find a recovery method and treatment program that works for them. This is perhaps a good indication that the definition doesn’t fit the disease. However, if the use is becoming a need or you’re experiencing negative consequences because of it, it may be a problem. If you or someone you love may be experiencing marijuana abuse or addiction, talk with a trusted healthcare professional. They will work with you to get properly evaluated and the appropriate treatment.

What are some negative consequences of cannabis use disorder?

Individuals who are addicted to cannabis may experience symptoms of withdrawal when attempting to stop using the drug. Long-term users who try to quit report withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, sleeplessness, decreased appetite, anxiety and drug craving–all of which can make it difficult to abstain. Uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms can prevent people who are dependent on or addicted to cannabis from remaining abstinent. The commonly used treatments for cannabis withdrawal are either cognitive behavioral therapy or medication therapy, neither of which has been shown to be particularly effective. Some researchers are looking at CBD, the nonintoxicating component of cannabis, as a treatment for cannabis withdrawal.

Marijuana Abuse in Teens

If you or a loved one are struggling with marijuana misuse, WebMD Connect to Care Advisors are standing by to help.
Nearly 1 in 3 12th graders reported using it in the previous year, according to the 2023 Monitoring the Future Survey, an annual survey that measures drug and alcohol use among adolescent students nationwide.
If you need surgery and use cannabis, make sure to tell your doctor about your use.
Numerous studies show that marijuana can have a deleterious impact on cognitive development in adolescents, impairing executive function, processing speed, memory, attention span and concentration.
Long-term marijuana use can cause adverse effects both physical and psychological dependence, making it difficult to stop using, and even creating withdrawal symptoms in its users.

This classification is something that really grates people who support legalization of marijuana. Plus, pediatricians and others have long said that marijuana can impair brain functions in people under the age of 25. On the other hand, there are studies that have issued warnings on marijuana and heart health as well as using marijuana for morning sickness.

Marijuana Abuse in Pregnancy

It makes the world more interesting to counteract the loss of pleasure in depression. For those with PTSD who experience nightmares, it shuts down the process by which dreams form in the brain. Many people who use marijuana regularly notice that it boosts their appetite. They call this “the munchies.” Some research suggests that might help people with AIDS, cancer, or other illnesses regain weight.

marijuana addiction

Who becomes addicted to marijuana and why?

It contains a chemical called THC, which is a psychoactive chemical. Some cannabinoids are psychoactive, meaning they act on the brain to modify mood or consciousness. It can also be consumed via tea, baked goods, candies, or other edible means.

“It is likely that the combination of behavioral and pharmacological approaches will be superior to either alone.”
In fact, Connecticut was the most recent state to legalize the recreational use of marijuana.
High doses can produce a temporary psychotic reaction in some users.

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The main psychoactive ingredient, THC, stimulates the part of your brain that responds to pleasure, like food and sex. That unleashes a chemical called dopamine, which gives you a euphoric, marijuana addiction relaxed feeling. Many people can use marijuana safely without becoming addicted or abusing it. But like any mind-altering substance, there’s always a chance that it can become problematic.