Marijuana is the dried leaves and flowers from the cannabis sativa plant.[1] It contains an active ingredient known as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) that causes mind-altering effects. When smoked or consumed, THC can lead to effects like euphoria, dizziness, drowsiness, increased appetite, and more.
Cannabis is legal for recreational and medical use in many states. However, it remains illegal on a federal level. While some people use it to treat conditions like pain, and symptoms of cancer like vomiting, or seizures, others abuse it to experience a high.
According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), 15% of people aged 12 or older used marijuana in a single month in 2022.[2]
It is a common misconception that marijuana is not addictive. Because it has become legalized in many states, people believe it is completely safe to use. Repeated and chronic use of cannabis will lead to the development of a substance use disorder.
Thankfully, addiction treatment programs can help you overcome cannabis use disorder. These programs offer treatment plans that include detox, evidence-based therapies, relapse prevention planning, and more.
In this article, you will learn:
- Is marijuana addictive?
- What is marijuana addiction treatment?
- How does cannabis addiction treatment in Florida work?
Can You Get Addicted to Marijuana?
Marijuana causes mind-altering effects like euphoria, drowsiness, increased laughter, and more. It affects the reward and pleasure system in your brain. As a result of this, it is possible to develop an addiction to cannabis and THC products.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “Recent research estimated that approximately 3 in 10 people who use cannabis have cannabis use disorder.”[3]
If you smoke marijuana regularly, you could become addicted. The signs of marijuana addiction include:
- Having a hard time controlling how much or how often you abuse marijuana
- Experiencing cravings or urges to abuse cannabis
- Losing interest in previously enjoyed activities
- Mixing marijuana with other substances to increase your high
- Wanting to quit using THC but being unsuccessful
- Continuing to use marijuana despite facing adverse physical or mental health conditions
- Failing to meet responsibilities at home, school, or work because of marijuana use
- Experiencing interpersonal conflicts with friends or family members because of cannabis abuse
- Using marijuana to cope with a mental health disorder without a prescription (self-medicating)
- Needing to increase the amount of marijuana you use to experience the desired effect
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when you stop using cannabis
If you are struggling with marijuana use disorder, you should seek professional help. Marijuana addiction treatment programs like Solutions Healthcare offer the tools and support necessary to regain control over your life.
How Does Marijuana Addiction Treatment in Florida Work?
Choosing to attend addiction treatment is one of the most important decisions you can make. One of the reasons people avoid getting the help they need is because they are afraid of the unknown. Knowing what to expect during a marijuana rehab program can motivate you to accept the support available to you.
Assessment
The first step in marijuana rehab is an in-depth assessment. Addiction specialists will ask you questions about your physical and mental health as well as your history of cannabis abuse. The information gathered will be used to create an individualized treatment plan.
Examples of questions asked during an assessment include:
- How long have you been abusing marijuana?
- Do you use any other substances?
- Have you ever attended treatment or relapsed in the past?
- Do you have any co-occurring mental health conditions?
- Were you using marijuana to cope with a physical or mental health disorder?
- Do you take any daily medications?
- Do you have a physical health condition that requires ongoing treatment?
- Does your family have a history of mental illness or addiction?
Medical Detox
Once your treatment plan is created, you will begin detox. Nearly half of heavy marijuana users experience withdrawal symptoms when they stop using. Detox helps you overcome these symptoms using treatments, medication, and psychological support.
During detox for marijuana withdrawal, you will receive:
- Medications to lessen withdrawal symptoms
- Treatments to keep you stable like IV fluids
- Consistent monitoring of vital signs
- Mental health support for psychological withdrawal symptoms
Behavioral Therapies
Marijuana rehab centers use evidence-based behavioral therapies to help you overcome the root causes of your substance use disorder and develop coping skills that keep you sober.
Some of the therapies used during marijuana addiction treatment in Florida include:[4]
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Motivational interviewing (MI)
- Contingency management (CM)
- 12-step facilitation therapy
- Family behavior therapy
Holistic Care
The term holistic refers to the “whole person.” Holistic services help you recover on an emotional, physical, and spiritual level.
Examples of types of holistic care used during marijuana rehab in Florida include:
- Yoga and meditation
- Mindfulness and breathing techniques
- Art and music therapy
- Nutritional counseling and exercise therapy
- Massage and acupuncture
- And more!
Relapse Prevention Planning
Before you complete your cannabis rehab program, you will engage in relapse prevention planning. This process prepares you to remain sober outside of a treatment facility by educating you on triggers and arming you with healthy coping mechanisms. Your therapist will help you identify potential triggers and come up with a plan of action for dealing with them.
Another part of relapse prevention planning is aftercare. Treatment centers like Solutions Healthcare offer the following types of aftercare services:
- Continued therapy and medication management
- Access to an alumni support group
- Referrals to outpatient or sober living programs
- Recommendations on local support groups like 12-step meetings
- Case management services like vocational or legal assistance
Get Connected to Treatment for Marijuana Addiction
If you or a loved one suffers from cannabis addiction, it’s time to seek help. Long-term cannabis abuse can be damaging to both your physical and mental health. Addiction treatment centers will help you develop the skills you need to remain sober even in the face of adversity.
At Solutions Healthcare, we believe in individualized and evidence-based treatment. At our rehab program, you will receive the support and care you need to be successful in sobriety. Contact us today for more information on our marijuana addiction treatment center in Florida.
Reference
- The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA): Cannabis
- The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): Results from the 2022 National Survey on Drug Use and Health
- The Centers for Disease and Control Prevention (CDC): Cannabis Facts and Stats
- Science Direct: Evidence-based practices for substance use disorders
FAQ
What is the most common treatment for marijuana?
The most common treatment for marijuana addiction involves behavioral therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational enhancement, and contingency management. Treatment may also address cravings, withdrawal symptoms, co-occurring mental health concerns, and triggers that contribute to marijuana use.
Is there a 12-step program for marijuana?
Yes. Marijuana Anonymous (MA) is a 12-step fellowship designed for people who want to stop using marijuana. It provides peer support, recovery meetings, and a structured approach based on the principles of the 12-step recovery model.
Can marijuana addiction be cured?
Marijuana addiction, also called cannabis use disorder, can be effectively treated, although recovery is an ongoing process rather than a guaranteed cure. Behavioral therapies, recovery support, and relapse-prevention strategies can help people stop using marijuana and maintain recovery.
What are some alternatives to marijuana use?
Healthy alternatives to marijuana may include exercise, mindfulness, hobbies, creative activities, social support, relaxation techniques, and structured routines. For people struggling with addiction, counseling and recovery programs can provide healthier coping strategies for stress, cravings, and difficult emotions.
Does marijuana cause addiction?
Yes. Marijuana can cause addiction, known medically as cannabis use disorder. Risk increases with frequent use, early initiation, and high-potency products. Signs can include difficulty controlling use, strong cravings, continued use despite problems, and unsuccessful attempts to quit.
What are the common symptoms of quitting marijuana?
Common marijuana withdrawal symptoms include irritability, anxiety, restlessness, sleep difficulties, reduced appetite, depressed mood, headaches, sweating, and strong cravings. Symptoms often begin within days after stopping and generally improve over the following weeks.
