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Marijuana Rehab Center in NJ
Marijuana Addiction: Signs, Symptoms & Causes
- Written by Amanda Stevens, B.S.
- Reviewed By: Dr. Po-Chang Hsu, M.D., M.S.
- Updated:
- Published:
- Reading Time: 9 minutes
Learn more about the signs and causes of marijuana addiction & find the help you need in NJ.
Marijuana Addiction & Recovery
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Marijuana or cannabis is often considered a minor, harmless drug, but this isn’t always true. The plant-derived substance is used recreationally and in alternative medicine, but it can lead to abuse and dependence. It is common for people who use cannabis to refer to this substance as weed, grass, Mary Jane, and bud.
Despite common misconceptions, marijuana addiction is a real and challenging condition that affects individuals and families across the globe.
At Absolute Awakenings Treatment Center in New Jersey, we understand the complex nature of marijuana dependence and offer specialized treatment to address it head-on. Our center provides a safe, supportive environment where those struggling with marijuana addiction can find comprehensive care tailored to their unique needs. With a focus on holistic recovery and lasting wellness, our expert team empowers individuals to overcome addiction and regain control of their lives.
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what exactly is weed?
What is Marijuana?
Marijuana, also known as cannabis, is a plant that grows in the warm climates of Asia and South America. People have used this plant in religious rituals and folk remedies for thousands of years. In more recent years, people have often used it recreationally. Over 52 million people in the United States have used marijuana in the last 12 months as of 2021.[1]
Cannabis is a psychoactive drug. This means it alters your state of consciousness. It isn’t a true hallucinogen, though it can sometimes produce hallucinations in very high doses. Similar to alcohol, it can make a person behave and think differently.
Some states, like New Jersey, have legalized this substance and used it to treat certain health conditions, such as anxiety, pain, and insomnia. Although cannabis is legal in several states, it is still considered a Schedule I Drug, meaning it has the highest categorized potential for abuse.
Marijuana Addiction Defined
According to the DSM-5, it is possible to diagnose a cannabis use disorder based on the following criteria:
- Cannabis intoxication
- Withdrawal
- Cannabis-induced psychotic disorder
- Intoxication delirium
- Cannabis-induced anxiety disorder
- Cannabis-induced sleep disorder
Marijuana is a Schedule 1 controlled substance which confirms its high potential for abuse and addiction. Even recreational cannabis use can lead to physical and psychological dependence.
how to know when someone is addicted to weed
Typical Signs & Effects of Marijuana Addiction
Those addicted to cannabis may spend a lot of time using it and surround themselves with friends and family who share their habits. They may crave cannabis when they’re not using it. Some may steal money from people they know to buy more marijuana. Physical symptoms include bloodshot eyes, fatigue, and insomnia.
There is a fine line between using marijuana regularly and abusing it. The substance becomes a problem when you can’t function without it. When you’re not using cannabis, you may be thinking about using it, or you may have cravings. Marijuana abuse can make a person tired, socially isolated, and moody.
Some people may not be themselves when they are under the influence of this substance. It can also make it difficult to maintain a job and normal relationships.
Long-term marijuana use is known to damage the brain. It is also linked to other serious mental conditions, such as schizophrenia and psychosis. In some cases, these psychological disorders may become permanent. Long-term marijuana use may also cause anxiety, paranoia, memory problems, cognitive impairment, and a lower IQ.
Some people who use marijuana may have rare side effects, such as hallucinations, delusions, upset stomach, fainting, and vomiting.
Due to its legal status across many states, and the ease of access, cannabis is one of the most widely used substances available. It is believed that around 30% of everyone who uses marijuana has a substance use disorder due to physical or psychological dependence.[2]
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Can you overdose on marijuana?
Dangers of Marijuana Overdose
The good news about marijuana abuse is that no one has ever died from a marijuana overdose. However, this is not to say that no one has ever died from marijuana use. It is possible to die if you mix marijuana with other drugs. These include alcohol, depressant medications, and stimulants. But overdosing on marijuana alone is virtually impossible.
When you mix marijuana with alcohol or other drugs, a person can enter a stupor or become unconscious. They may also experience symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and confusion. Their heart rate may also be very low, and their breathing may be faint.
What to do if you suspect someone is overdosing on Marijuana laced with another
- Call 911
- Check for a pulse
- If the person is not breathing, perform CPR
- Stay with the person until medical help arrives
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how do people typical use marijuana?
How Exactly is Marijuana Used?
Smoking marijuana is the most common way to experience this substance. The cannabis plant produces buds, which are then dried and smoked. Inhaling the smoke produces an immediate feeling of euphoria.
It is also possible to obtain liquid forms of this substance. Tinctures and oils are often used sublingually. This will create a sense of euphoria 20 to 30 minutes after the administration. Cannabis has to travel into the blood through the thin membranes under your tongue before it can enact its effects.
It is also possible to apply marijuana topically, but this usually creates faint, localized effects.
Marijuana acts as both a stimulant and a depressant, making it a dangerous substance to mix. It should never be taken with alcohol as it can lower your heart rate or even stop it. It can also make your breathing shallow and make it difficult to move. Taking it with other stimulants will increase the effects and intensify negative side effects.
Illegal marijuana may be cut with dried grass, herbs, PCP, and cocaine. The latter can make the substance even more addictive.
There are two forms of cannabis: sativa and indica. While indica and sativa strains have many similarities, sativa is said to be more stimulating. This may cause an increased heart rate, anxiety, paranoia, and dizziness. Many people also experience dry mouth, increased hunger, difficulty concentrating, and memory problems.
Indica cannabis strains are known for being relaxing. This can cause fatigue, confusion, muscle weakness, and memory problems. Very high doses of marijuana may cause a person to faint or fall into a very deep sleep. Others may experience mood and appetite changes.
Answers to Common Questions About
Marijuana Addiction FAQs
Long-term health risks include decreased IQ, psychosis, schizophrenia, and anxiety.
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If you have constant cravings for cannabis and feel that you can’t function without it, you may have developed a dependence. Get the treatment you need as soon as possible to restore a healthier you.
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It is possible to experience the effects of cannabis through second-hand smoke. However, becoming addicted this way is very unlikely. If you are very worried about becoming addicted, it is best to avoid those who smoke marijuana.
getting help for marijuana addiction in NJ
Finding the Best Marijuana Addiction Treatment Options in New Jersey
Rehab for weed can be helpful for anyone suffering from a marijuana use disorder. Addiction treatment often lasts several months. It may be a year for those who have been using cannabis for a long time. The price will vary depending on what marijuana rehab treatment program you choose.
Detox placement consists of supervised medical detox. Letting these toxins leave your body when you have professional support is safer. This process is also known as medically managed withdrawal. Detox is a painful and potentially dangerous process. It takes most people several weeks to detox from marijuana.
It becomes much easier to pursue further treatment once this drug is out of your system.
Partial care is a full-time program that’s a more intensive level of care than standard outpatient treatment. You will participate in treatment for much of the day but will not sleep at the facility. This flexibility allows patients to balance their lives with their treatment.
Patients in this program are medically monitored. This ensures that patients are taken care of both physically and mentally. Partial care treatment programs are tailored to meet the unique needs of each patient.
Outpatient treatment consists of scheduled therapy sessions throughout the week based on the patient’s needs. This is an ideal program for those who have stable home environments and are further along in their recovery.
Those with more advanced needs can get treatment several times a week. This program helps you stay focused on your responsibilities without abandoning treatment. Entering outpatient treatment will include screening, assessment, orientation, treatment, and aftercare.
Going through this process will help you overcome your addiction problems. It will also make it less likely that you will relapse.
Many people start using marijuana because they have anxiety, insomnia, or pain problems. Others may use it because they are already using other substances, such as alcohol, and want to experiment with something new. For those suffering from both mental health and substance use disorders, dual diagnosis treatment addresses both conditions simultaneously.
Being addicted to marijuana can cause depression and anxiety. It may also cause more serious mental health issues like psychosis and schizophrenia. It can be very hard to fix these problems once they develop, especially if you’ve been using marijuana for a long time.
Going through cannabis withdrawal can be difficult and takes between one week and a month for most people. During this time, regular treatment and behavioral health therapy are necessary to reduce the risk of relapse and promote long-term recovery.
So far, there are no known medications that help with marijuana withdrawal. Minor medications like Tylenol may be used to reduce pain and discomfort.
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Find Recovery from Marijuana Addiction in New Jersey at Absolute Awakenings
Don't Let Marijuana Take Over Your Life
If you’re grappling with the effects of marijuana addiction, know that support and healing are within reach at Absolute Awakenings Treatment Center in New Jersey. Our dedicated professionals are committed to guiding you through a transformative journey, addressing the root causes of your addiction and equipping you with the skills for sustained sobriety. Embrace the opportunity to live a life free from dependence; reach out to us today, and take the first step towards a future filled with clarity, purpose, and wellness.
Rediscover a life unbound by marijuana addiction at Absolute Awakenings Treatment Center. Let our compassionate care and evidence-based treatments pave the way for your new beginning. With tailored therapies, a supportive community, and a path to true awakening, we’re ready to stand by your side as you chart the course to recovery. Don’t hesitate to claim the joyful, healthy life you deserve. Contact Absolute Awakenings today, and embark on the road to recovery with confidence.
- NIDA. 2023, January 23. What is the scope of cannabis (marijuana) use in the United States?. Retrieved from https://nida.nih.gov/publications/research-reports/marijuana/what-scope-marijuana-use-in-united-states on 2023, May 18
- NIDA. 2021, April 13. Is marijuana addictive?. Retrieved from https://nida.nih.gov/publications/research-reports/marijuana/marijuana-addictive on 2023, May 18
-  Patel J, Marwaha R. Cannabis Use Disorder. [Updated 2022 Jul 11]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK538131/ on May 18, 2023.
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