There is a common misconception that marijuana is not addictive. This leads many people to feel that it is relatively safe to use. However, it is possible to become addicted to marijuana and experience adverse side effects. Familiarizing yourself with common marijuana addiction signs can help you realize whether your or a loved one’s weed use is problematic and requires marijuana addiction treatment.
At Ashwood Recovery, we know that marijuana use is not as innocent as it may seem. We are here to help you get back in control when marijuana addiction starts derailing your life. Call us today at 888.341.3607 to learn how our outpatient marijuana addiction treatment program can support your sober future.
Is it Possible to Become Addicted to Marijuana?
Despite popular belief, people can become addicted to marijuana and struggle with uncomfortable side effects and withdrawal symptoms. But if marijuana is addictive, why do so many people believe it is entirely safe to use?
While it is possible to develop an addiction to marijuana, the likelihood is far less than other drugs. Only a small percentage of people that use marijuana become addicted to it. However, that does not mean you do not need to exercise caution if you use the drug.
Some factors increase your risk of marijuana addiction, such as:
- Starting marijuana use before the age of 18
- Genetic predisposition to addiction
- Lack of connection to others
- Strained family relationships
- Having a mental health disorder such as depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder
- Having an addiction to another substance
Marijuana is now legal in certain states, making access to it easier than ever. If you choose to partake in marijuana but have some of the risk factors listed above, you must be mindful of your use to prevent a possible addiction.
Common Marijuana Addiction Signs
You may not see the signs of marijuana addiction early on, but the signs will become more apparent with continued use. Some common marijuana addiction signs include:
- Developing a tolerance and needing to smoke more weed to get the same sedating effects
- Using more marijuana than intended
- Failing to follow through on work or home responsibilities to use marijuana
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when you try to cut back or quit using marijuana
When you have developed a marijuana addiction, you may also find yourself avoiding activities you used to enjoy. Marijuana use takes precedence, and being under its influence may decrease your motivation to engage in other activities. If you no longer spend time with loved ones other than people who use marijuana with you, you may want to consider getting help from a marijuana addiction treatment program.
Is Marijuana Dangerous?
Since marijuana does not present side effects as severe as drugs like cocaine and crystal meth, many people have a false sense of safety when smoking or consuming marijuana. One of the major concerns about marijuana use is that it is a gateway drug that can lead to experimenting with other more dangerous drugs. But even if you stick to just weed, long-term, heavy use can cause:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Impaired cognitive function
- Suicidal thoughts
And since you can become addicted to marijuana, you may end up feeling the need to use the drug to function normally each day.
Addicted to Marijuana? Call Ashwood Recovery for Marijuana Addiction Treatment
If you have started noticing marijuana addiction signs, you can count on Ashwood Recovery to help you overcome your dependency on this drug. Our outpatient marijuana addiction treatment programs allow you to recover on a convenient schedule that works for you. Reach out to us at 888.341.3607 to learn how we can help you leave marijuana addiction behind.