Since the dawn of recreational marijuana, beginning in 2012, the question is weed addictive has remained a huge debate. Though many seem to feel that it is safe because it is claimed to be medicinal, there is more to it than that, especially as more options than ever exist for consuming this substance, including marijuana edibles. Marijuana can be addictive, both psychologically and physically. We will discuss this throughout the article.
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Understanding Marijuana and Its Effects
When trying to figure out is weed addictive, we have to understand how it works first. Marijuana is what is called a psychoactive drug, coming from the Cannabis sativa plant. It contains a chemical called THC, which is the reason why it has euphoric effects on people. Believe it or not, the human brain has what is called cannabinoid receptors, which means that when you smoke marijuana, the THC found in it goes through the lungs and into the bloodstream, where it attaches to these receptors in the brain. It can then cause feelings of euphoria, pleasure, and false happiness. However, it comes with its share of side effects.
The Science Behind Marijuana Addiction
When asking is weed addictive, it is important to understand where these THC receptors are found. They are located in areas that have to do with pleasure, and this is where things get interesting. This all relates back to brain chemistry, including dopamine addiction, which can play a large role in addiction overall.
Long-term use of cannabis interacts with this same chemical, and it lowers its amount if you are a regular user. According to WebMD, THC also acts as a similar chemical in the brain called anandamide. If you use marijuana regularly, this causes the brain to start relying on the THC the marijuana provides to perform the same functions as the chemical, which is important for communication between nerve cells. This can lead to dependency and even addiction.
Signs and Symptoms of Marijuana Addiction
There are several physical symptoms of marijuana abuse. This includes dry mouth, fatigue and tiredness, poor coordination, and a slowed heart rate. When we examine the question — Is weed addictive? — we have to take into consideration the psychological symptoms of marijuana abuse, such as short-term effects such as problems concentrating and agitation, to the long-term impacts, such as an inability for the brain to create certain chemicals necessary for us to function.
This can affect work, school, and life in general. Other factors play a role in cannabis misuse, often called cannabis use disorder, or CUD, such as symptoms that come from a behavioral view. This includes losing interest in once-pleasurable activities, a lack of joy in life (unless when using the substance), and becoming distant from family and friends.
Risk Factors for Marijuana Addiction
When trying to understand an answer to the question is weed addictive, we have to look into genetics. According to the Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, there is a genetic bias of around 50 percent of users with CUD toward marijuana use.
This is stunning, as it shows that just like other drugs, you can develop a physical addiction to the substance, and this is passed on from generation to generation. Also, aside from genetics, the more you use the substance, the more likely your body will become used to it. Lastly, mental health plays a large role in CUD. Many try to cover up anxiety and depression by numbing themselves with marijuana, so the answer to is weed addictive is a definite yes.
Comparing Marijuana Addiction to Other Substance Addictions
Is weed addictive? Yes, it is, and it is no different than alcohol, opioids, and stimulants. The difference is the way society thinks about it. Since marijuana became recreational across many states, including Colorado, Nevada, and California, there has been a steady increase in the number of those using (and abusing) the substance, and more reports of “greening out.” Marijuana, just like any of the previously mentioned substances, acts on the same parts of the brain that cause pleasure. This then leads to the user seeking more and more of it, and the more we stray from the idea that it is still a drug even though it is legalized, the worse off we will be. Alcohol, opioids, and stimulants are also legal in prescription form, yet are still abused because of the effects they cause.
The Debate: Is Weed Addictive, Truly?
Many feel that because marijuana is used for medicinal purposes, it is safe to use in high doses. Over the past decade, marijuana has seen massive growth in medicinal and recreational use. There are, at present, 38 states that allow the medicinal use of marijuana and 24 states that allow recreational use, and this is where many people assume that just because it can be bought in a store means it is safe. So, is weed addictive?
Does the slowly but surely growing presence of the legal weed movement mean that it is safe? There is clear evidence that marijuana is psychologically and physically addictive, and yet many feel this is a rumor. At the end of the day, while there is evidence that marijuana can be used to treat pain, anxiety, and other mental health disorders, it can lead to dependence and, eventually, addiction. Thus, it is best to trust research stating that yes, it has addictive properties and that, yes, it can lead to psychological issues down the road.
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Treatment Options for Marijuana Addiction
At Muse Treatment, we believe any addiction is treatable with the right tools. With cognitive-behavioral therapy, which is an integral part of our program, our patients can learn to think differently about the way they think about marijuana use. We have provided the answer to the question is weed addictive — and we can also provide the solution. Twelve-step programs are also effective, such as Narcotics Anonymous, which provides a supportive atmosphere for recovery. Lastly, personalized treatment plans are essential, as nobody is the same, and that is why we pride ourselves in developing individualized attention and care for our patients.
Prevention Strategies for Marijuana Addiction
The best way to treat a disease is to prevent it. Is weed addictive? Yes, we have demonstrated that. And, among youth, there is a lot parents and support systems can do to prevent the behavior from starting. One thing is to make yourself a backbone.
This means communicating the dangers we have discussed throughout this article, and though it is always a good idea to give youth their space, if you are a concerned parent, make sure to educate your youngsters on how dangerous marijuana use can be. If not a parent, and perhaps someone concerned about another, prevention comes in the same form: support and communication. When we speak our minds and let others know that there are dangers in some of our choices, it is much easier and more effective than letting them learn the hard way.
Muse Treatment’s Approach to Marijuana Addiction
Here at Muse Treatment’s Los Angeles drug rehab center, we deal with all types of substance abuse, and cannabis is one of them. Twenty percent of those who experiment with marijuana will face difficulties down the road, and it is in our best interests to provide a supportive, therapeutic environment that is tailored to the individual’s specific needs. We take great pride in helping our patients achieve recovery, including with marijuana detox. If you feel you need help, contact us online or call Muse Treatment at 800-426-1818.
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