Marijuana originally gained popularity as a recreational substance in the U.S. in the early 1900s. Despite being outlawed in the 1930s; the drug swiftly became the most popular illicit substance in the nation.
The fact that several states have legalized marijuana usage for medicinal and, in some instances, recreational purposes does not imply that it is without danger. Marijuana usage is connected with psychological and physical health hazards, as well as the possibility of misuse and addiction.
If you wish to assist someone in quitting marijuana, you must first know how cannabis impacts the mind and how these impacts might make it hard for users to quit on their own.
Mental and Physical Effects of Cannabis
The ability of cannabis to make a user high relies on the levels of CBD and THC in the product. CBD does not provide a psychoactive effect, but THC does. Medical cannabis may have very little or no THC, offering low danger of negative effects.
THC affects parts of the mind that regulate memory, movement, and sensory perception, as well as those that trigger the pleasure response. Impaired judgment and motor skills, as well as a decreased response time, are among the side effects. Users often report feelings of exhilaration and well-being, as well as profound relaxation.
Marijuana consumption causes the mind to acclimate to its presence. When the brain becomes reliant on the substance’s presence, it starts to seek increasingly greater dosages to get the intended effect. This is known as addiction, and if marijuana usage is discontinued at this point, withdrawal symptoms will most likely take place as the brain tries to find balance.
Nervousness, insomnia, mood changes, decreased appetite, intense cravings, and other unpleasantness are common withdrawal symptoms. Cannabis withdrawal can be distressing, but it is seldom fatal. If your loved one is using other substances or alcohol in addition to marijuana, it is critical that they are closely watched by medical specialists while they go through withdrawal.
Today’s marijuana is far more strong than it was a couple of years back. Plants are frequently produced to yield up to three times the quantities of THC that were previously present, which can have harmful effects on the mind and other bodily systems.
Several studies have revealed a link between high-potency cannabis consumption and psychotic episodes, such as delusions and hallucinations. Other studies have linked frequent marijuana usage to an increased risk of:
• Lung disease or Pneumonia
• Chronic bronchitis
• Heart failure, stroke
• Several forms of cancer
• Substance abuse disorders, anxiety and depression
Tips to Help Your Friend Quit Cannabis
Have an open and honest dialogue in private – Remain non-judgmental and supportive while presenting specific instances of troubling behaviors or acts.
Stop enabling them – Set limits and be firm. Make no excuses for them for missing school, work, or other commitments; do not tolerate substance abuse in your household; stop giving them cash; and do not bail him or her out of legal troubles. Encourage them to assume accountability for their actions.
Demonstrate your faith in them – Tell them you feel they are able to rehabilitate and that you will assist them in achieving that objective.
Offer treatment details – Seek advice from your doctor or an addiction expert. Examine treatment choices, taking into account price and insurance cover, and also information on local support group meetings.
Relieve their concern about detoxing – Some addicts may avoid receiving treatment for addiction because they are afraid of detoxifying. Assure your friend that medically assisted detoxifying is the healthiest and most pleasant option, particularly if they are using other substances or alcohol. Medication may be prescribed by a doctor to make the procedure more pleasant.
Try to stay patient – Don’t be disheartened if they are unwilling to recognize they have an issue. You’ve begun the discussion, and they’re certainly pondering on what you said. Maintain your strong limits and return to the subject at a later time.
Treatment for Cannabis Addiction
Marijuana addiction may be treated in a variety of ways. Detox regimens are not necessarily essential because withdrawal symptoms are rarely serious. Treatment will generally take place in either an inpatient facility or an outpatient environment, depending on the individual’s requirements and desires as well as the treatment team’s recommendations.
Treatment may include:
• Psychoeducation – There are several myths surrounding marijuana usage. Educating the addict about the realities and hazards of the drug will be a critical component of treatment.
• Therapy – There are several effective therapy approaches for drug abuse and addiction. They might manifest as individual and group therapy focused solely on addiction disorders or underlying mental health concerns.
• Education and counseling for families – Education and counseling are essential for people who support individuals who are addicted, as well as for the users themselves. This contributes to the creation of a safe setting for the user by establishing suitable limits and constraints without being overly critical.
Call us today at 833-610-1174 and have your loved one on the road to recovery.