Despite changing regulations regarding its legality, marijuana can be addictive. Cannabis use disorder, also called CUD, most frequently affects people who begin using marijuana as teenagers. 30 percent of people who start smoking at a young age develop CUD, while nearly 10% of older users also become addicted. At Northpoint Recovery, we understand marijuana rehab.
Northpoint Recovery is here to help people in Nebraska struggling with marijuana addiction. Our Omaha clinic provides compassionate and flexible care for addiction and co-occurring disorders. To learn more about our outpatient treatment programs, call us now 402.685.9404 for a free assessment.
Is Marijuana Really Addictive?
The short answer to this question is: yes, marijuana can be addictive. The active ingredient, THC, that provides a euphoric high can cause some users to become addicted. It’s important to note that marijuana addiction is not as common as addiction to substances like alcohol or opioids. However, prolonged and heavy use of marijuana can lead to dependence, characterized by withdrawal symptoms and a strong desire to continue using.
While people have used marijuana for centuries, the potency of modern strains has increased, potentially contributing to a higher risk of addiction. It is crucial to understand the potential risks and exercise caution when using marijuana, particularly for those with a history of substance abuse or mental health issues.
Effects of THC include:
- Changes in sensory perception: brighter colors, enhanced taste, people look different
- Enhanced relaxation
- Paranoia
- Hallucinations
- Calmness
- Reduced memory recall
- Blood pressure changes
- Heart attack
- Abnormal heart rate
- Breathing problems (coughing, wheezing)
- Signs of marijuana use include:
- Low appetite, followed by binge eating
- Low energy
- Reduced short-term memory
- Lack of motivation
- Sleeping more often
- Financial trouble
- Changes in work, school, or athletic performance
As the marijuana industry has advanced in the last several decades, more potent strains have increased. This can make using marijuana more dangerous.
Is Marijuana Dangerous?
Contrary to popular misconceptions, marijuana can lead to other drug use and overdose. Marijuana overdose can cause:
- Physical pain from vomiting and severe nausea
- Confusion, panic, and anxiety at extreme levels
- Abnormal fear and distrust
- Hallucinations (seeing things that aren’t there)
- High blood pressure and increased heart rate
While fatal overdose is uncommon, marijuana addiction often points at underlying issues like unresolved trauma, mood disorders, and prolonged stress. Like any addiction, marijuana dependency is often a method of self-soothing. Because marijuana is easy to get, trendy, and increasingly easy to take, it’s a popular choice for self-medicating.
Frequent marijuana use can cause a syndrome called CHS, which causes cyclical nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain. Symptoms of CHS are a sign it’s time to seek medical attention.
Marijuana Addiction Rehab at Northpoint Omaha
When a person experiences marijuana withdrawal and intense cravings, it’s important to recognize the signs and seek professional help. Withdrawal is often the first indication that someone has developed an addiction.
Common withdrawal symptoms may include:
- Anxiety
- Uncontrollable drooling
- Low heart rate
- Aggressive behavior
- Mood swings, irritability
- Loss of appetite
While some individuals may attempt to detox at home and quit abruptly, it is always safest to seek medical and psychiatric assistance.
Medical assistance, including medically assisted detox and behavioral therapy, can significantly reduce the risk of relapse and help ease withdrawal symptoms. At Northpoint Recovery, our dedicated team is committed to helping individuals in our community understand and overcome marijuana addiction. It is crucial to address marijuana addiction seriously, as it can potentially lead to the abuse of other substances that may have fatal consequences.
Our center offers comprehensive outpatient programs designed to accommodate our patients’ unique lives and needs. We understand that each person’s experience with addiction is different, which is why we provide individualized care that includes one-on-one therapy, detoxification, and personalized aftercare planning for a successful and lasting recovery.
Marijuana Rehab in Omaha at Northpoint Recovery
If you or someone in your life is struggling with marijuana addiction, take the first step towards recovery by calling Northpoint Recovery today. Our dedicated staff at Northpoint Omaha is here to support you throughout the detoxification process and help you effectively recover from marijuana dependence.
Don’t let stigmas and misinformation prevent you from seeking the help you deserve. If you’re ready to embark on a journey of healing and learn more about how Northpoint Omaha can assist you in overcoming marijuana addiction, don’t hesitate to call us now 402.685.9404. Our team is available to provide you with additional information about our comprehensive and personalized treatment options for marijuana addiction recovery.