Marijuana addiction treatment can help you or your loved one break free from dependency and regain control over life. In this blog, we’ll explain the signs, health effects, treatment options, and how to choose the right rehab program.
Introduction
While marijuana is often viewed as “less dangerous” than other substances, regular and heavy use can lead to dependence and addiction. This affects your daily life, including relationships, career, and mental and physical health.
This guide is meant for people fighting marijuana use, family members seeking help for a loved one, and anyone to learn about treatment choices. By the end, you will understand how marijuana addiction treatment works and how to locate a program that meets your needs.
What is marijuana addiction?
Also known as Cannabis Use Disorder, marijuana addiction results from an individual’s inability to stop using marijuana despite the harm it causes in their life.
According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), roughly 3 in 10 marijuana users develop a use disorder, meaning withdrawal symptoms make it hard to quit.
What are the signs of marijuana addiction?
Common signs include:
- Using more marijuana than intended
- Needing higher doses to feel the same effects (tolerance)
- Spending a lot of time obtaining or using marijuana
- Neglecting responsibilities at work, school, or home
- Feeling anxious or irritable when trying to quit
If two or more of these symptoms are present, it may be time to seek professional help.
What are the long-term effects of marijuana abuse?
Long-term marijuana use can result in more than simple short-term impairment. Among the potential health effects are:
- Cognitive decline: Issues related to decision-making, learning, and memory.
- Respiratory problems: Chronic bronchitis and lung irritation from smoking.
- Mental health disorders: Increased vulnerability to depression, anxiety, and psychosis (especially for predisposed individuals).
- Reduced motivation: Declining progress at school or work.
In younger consumers, whose brains are still developing, these impacts can be more pronounced.
How is marijuana addiction treated?
Treatment typically includes behavioral therapy, counseling, and support groups. Unlike opioids or alcohol, marijuana addiction lacks an FDA-approved medication; as a result, therapy assumes the central role.
Here at Skyward Treatment Center, our marijuana rehab program includes:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Changes the thought patterns associated with cannabis use.
- Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET): Builds motivation to quit.
- Contingency management: Rewards progress and abstinence.
What types of rehab programs are available?
There are different levels of care based on your needs, including:
- Inpatient Rehab: Stay at a treatment centre for intensive care.
- Outpatient Programs: Attend scheduled therapy while living at home.
- Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP): A balance between inpatient and standard outpatient care.
For example, one of our outpatient clients in Houston went from daily marijuana use to 6 months sober after combining CBT sessions with group support.
How do you choose the right marijuana treatment center?
Here are some things to consider before choosing a rehab center:
- Licensed and experienced addiction specialists
- Evidence-based therapies (like CBT and MET)
- Treatment for co-occurring mental health issues
- Aftercare planning to prevent relapse
Frequently asked questions
Can I get addicted to marijuana?
Yes. Although some people use marijuana casually without problems, others get hooked and experience withdrawal symptoms when they attempt to stop.
How long does marijuana withdrawal last?
Typically, withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, sleep difficulties, and cravings last 1–2 weeks, but can persist longer for heavy users.
How do I know what level of care I need for marijuana addiction?
A professional assessment at a licensed rehab facility will help to establish whether you require partial hospitalization, outpatient, or inpatient care.
How long does marijuana treatment last?
Treatment can take anything from 30 days to several months, depending on the level of addiction and personal needs.
What medications are used during marijuana treatment?
There are no FDA-approved medications for cannabis addiction. However, doctors may prescribe medications to help with withdrawal symptoms like anxiety or insomnia.
Does insurance cover marijuana addiction treatment?
Most insurance policies provide some coverage for drug abuse therapy. Contact your provider or Skyward Treatment Center for verification.
For verification, call your provider or Skyward Treatment Center.
Next steps: find the right help
Though marijuana addiction might not get as much attention as opioid or alcohol abuse, its effects on mental, physical, and social health can be equally severe. If you or a loved one is struggling with marijuana dependency, help is available.
Contact us today to learn about our marijuana addiction treatment programs and start taking steps toward recovery.