What is Marijuana Addiction
Marijuana Addiction: When Cannabis Becomes a Problem
Marijuana, also known as cannabis, weed, pot, grass, or ganja, is one of the most widely used psychoactive substances in the world. While often perceived as harmless or even medicinal, frequent and long-term marijuana use can lead to dependence and addiction, especially when started at a young age or used in high-potency forms.
Marijuana addiction, also known as Cannabis Use Disorder (CUD), occurs when a person continues to use marijuana compulsively despite negative effects on their health, relationships, work, or mental well-being.
At InnerLife Recovery, we provide personalized, nonjudgmental care for individuals struggling with marijuana addiction. Our international team is here to help you or your loved one begin the journey to recovery.
Signs and Symptoms of Marijuana Addiction
Not everyone who uses marijuana is addicted, but these signs may indicate a developing problem:
Behavioral Signs:
- Using more often or in larger amounts than intended
- Failed attempts to cut down or stop
- Spending a lot of time obtaining, using, or recovering from marijuana
- Neglecting responsibilities at work, school, or home
- Continued use despite relationship, financial, or legal issues
Physical and Psychological Symptoms:
- Memory problems or lack of concentration
- Anxiety, paranoia, or panic attacks
- Sleep problems or fatigue
- Loss of motivation (“amotivational syndrome”)
- Irritability or mood swings when not using
- Increased tolerance and withdrawal (e.g., headaches, cravings, restlessness)
How People Become Addicted to Marijuana
THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the primary psychoactive component in marijuana, stimulates the brain’s reward system and creates a sense of relaxation, altered perception, or euphoria. Over time, repeated use can lead the brain to rely on THC to regulate mood and stress, making it harder to function without it. While many people can use marijuana occasionally without issue, others may experience:
- Increased tolerance (needing more to feel high).
- Cravings or preoccupation with using.
- Loss of motivation or interest in other activities.
- Withdrawal symptoms when trying to quit.
- Difficulty controlling use, even when it causes harm.
Street Names and Common Forms of Marijuana
- Common Names: Weed, Pot, Ganja, Bud, Herb, Mary Jane, Reefer, Dope, Chronic
- Forms:
- Smoked: joints, blunts, bongs, pipes
- Vaped: THC oil cartridges, dry herb vaporizers
- Eaten: THC-infused edibles, gummies, baked goods
- Concentrates: hash oil, wax, shatter, dabs
Short-Term and Long-Term Effects of Drug Abuse
Short-term effects can include:
- Impaired coordination and slowed reaction time
- Altered perception of time and surroundings
- Dry mouth, red eyes, increased appetite
- Impaired judgment (risk-taking, accidents)
- Anxiety or paranoia, especially in high doses
Long-term effects may include:
- Poor memory and learning ability
- Difficulty concentrating or completing tasks
- Respiratory issues (if smoked)
- Worsening of anxiety, depression, or psychosis (especially in high-THC users)
- Dependence and cannabis withdrawal syndrome
- Impact on brain development (when use begins in adolescence)
Treatment for Marijuana Addiction
Marijuana addiction can affect anyone, but certain factors increase vulnerability. These include a family history of addiction, co-occurring mental health conditions (like anxiety, ADHD or depression or), high-stress environments, and social or peer influences. Regardless of how addiction develops, treatment is available, and recovery is achievable.
At InnerLife Recovery, we provide a comprehensive range of evidence-based and holistic therapies in all our treatment programs, designed to meet each individual’s unique needs.
Choose InnerLife Recovery Today
When you choose InnerLife Recovery, you’re choosing a team of professionals that’s fully invested in your long term recovery. We want what’s best for you and provide all the tools you need to beat your struggles by providing the best treatment for marijuana addiction.
In addition, our team possesses over 100 years of combined experience in addiction. Each individual works towards a common goal: your recovery. From licensed clinical psychologists, doctors and psychiatrists to therapists, yoga teachers, personal trainer and an excellent chef. Every member of our team will provide key skills and techniques that directly impact your recovery and improve your chances of long term success, both during your stay with us and beyond.
If you or a loved one are struggling with marijuana addiction, you are not alone. Contact us today, we are here to support you.
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