Marijuana Addiction

Cannabis, commonly referred to as marijuana, weed, pot, or grass, blunt, and joint, is one of the most widely used psychoactive substances in Canada. In British Columbia, cannabis is legal for both medical and non-medical (recreational) use under federal legislation.

Medical cannabis is also legal across Canada and must be obtained through a licensed medical provider. It is often used to manage symptoms related to chronic pain, anxiety, PTSD, or other health conditions, under a healthcare provider’s guidance.

While cannabis is no longer considered an illegal substance in BC, responsible use, education on health effects, and awareness of the law remain important.

Marijuana can be addictive.

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV) states that addiction is when someone compulsively uses a drug even when they experience negative consequences. As a result, the continued use can cause an increased intolerance. Then, when they try to stop using the drug, they experience withdrawal symptoms.

Effects of Marijuana

Marijuana is often smoked, but can also be ingested in edibles. When used, it can cause a variety of experiences. Many people describe that they feel “high”. Others report feeling positive feelings and may laugh uncontrollably. Others may feel paranoid or miserable. The effects may vary depending on the person and the quality or makeup of the substance.

The effect can also differ for no apparent reason. One can feel happy one day when using marijuana and the next, they may feel paranoid and miserable.

Marijuana can also cause reality distortion, heightened senses, feeling spaced out, and have difficulty thinking or performing functions.

Regular use of marijuana can have a negative impact on the intellect, memory, and emotions.

Is Marijuana Addictive?

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, about 30 percent of those that use marijuana become addicted to it. Those that start using the drug before turning 18 years old are up to seven times more likely to become dependent on it.

Even if you are not physically dependent on marijuana, you could be psychologically dependent on it. Someone who abuses marijuana will most likely continue to use the substance even when negative consequences occur.

For example, if you are seeking a job and know that you will have to go through drug testing, but can’t stop using marijuana long enough to pass a drug test, you may have an addiction issue. This can cause you to lose out on work.

Here are some common addictive behaviors that may occur if you are addicted or dependent on marijuana:

• Smoking marijuana will be on your mind much of the time.
• You may need to use more to get the same effect.
• You may get angry or irritable when you are out of marijuana.
• You continue to use marijuana even when you continue to suffer negative consequences.
• Your behavior has changed significantly since using marijuana.
• You become depressed
• You start isolating, as your desire to be around others decreases
• You try to quit and may be able to for days or weeks, but always go back to using

Marijuana Withdrawal Effects

Those who want to quit marijuana may struggle with uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms similar to those who try to stop smoking cigarettes. Smokers complain that quitting smoking is extremely difficult, largely because nicotine is quite addictive. The withdrawal symptoms can be quite intense.

Smokers report feeling agitated, irritable, anxious, angry, restless, depressed and have difficulty sleeping.

Some marijuana users trying to quit complaining of having the same type of withdrawal symptoms.

The degree or intensity of withdrawal symptoms may vary depending on:

• Frequency of use
• Mental health
• Type of marijuana/Quality
• Support system
• Age
• Health

Marijuana Addiction Treatment

Into Action Recovery offers evidence-based, quality addiction treatment for marijuana. If you or a loved one is struggling with trying to stop using cannabis, know that we are here to help you get free.

One of the first steps is to have an assessment completed so we can get a clearer picture of what’s going on in your life, including how and when you’re using marijuana. From there, we will create a unique, personalized treatment plan to help you get free from addiction and go on to create the kind of life you truly desire.

We have several treatment programs to assist you with getting free from marijuana addiction.

First Stage Residential Program

The first stage is our 60-day residential program for men struggling with marijuana addiction. This allows you to come to live at our residential home for two months, to give you ample time and space to solely focus on your recovery. Our homes are safe, stylish, and comfortable – a home-like atmosphere.

During these months, you’ll have ample time to learn about addiction, recovery, relapse prevention, life coping skills, and a lot more. If you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, etc., you’ll also be able to work closely with a therapist to address these issues.

Second Stage Transitional Program

The second stage allows for 30 additional days to strengthen your recovery. This gives you continued structure and accountability, helping you become even stronger in your recovery. You’re able to leave and attend work or school in this stage.

Long-Term Sober Living

We offer an additional option for those who require housing long-term. You will still have some structure and accountability to really solidify your recovery before you head out on your own.

In all programs, you have access to:

• Individual counseling
• Addiction recovery education
• Life skills training
• Coping skill training
• Conflict resolution skill training
• Relapse prevention training
• Group therapy
• 12 Step and/or support groups
• Trauma recovery

We’re here to help you get free from marijuana addiction. Contact our staff today with any questions or concerns. Many people have stopped using marijuana and now live a life free from mind-altering drugs.

With professional help, determination, and following your treatment plan, you can too.

Give us a call today. We’d love to hear from you.
 
 

FAQ: Marijuana Addiction and Treatment in BC

What is cannabis and is it legal in BC?
Cannabis, also known as marijuana, weed, pot, grass, blunt, or joint, is a psychoactive substance legal in British Columbia for both medical and recreational use under federal legislation. Medical cannabis must be obtained through a licensed provider and is often used to manage conditions like chronic pain, anxiety, or PTSD under medical guidance.

Can marijuana be addictive?
Yes, marijuana can be addictive. According to the DSM-IV, addiction involves compulsive drug use despite negative consequences. Continued use may lead to increased tolerance and withdrawal symptoms when attempting to quit. Approximately 30 percent of users may develop an addiction, and individuals who start using before age 18 are at a higher risk of dependency.

What are the effects of marijuana use?
Marijuana can create a range of effects. Some users feel euphoric or relaxed, while others experience paranoia or distress. Effects may include reality distortion, enhanced senses, difficulty concentrating, or emotional shifts. Regular use can impair intellectual, emotional, and memory functions.

How do I know if I’m addicted to marijuana?
Addiction can manifest in several ways. You may find yourself thinking about marijuana often, needing more to feel the same effect, becoming irritable without it, continuing use despite consequences, experiencing mood changes, isolating, or failing in attempts to quit long-term.

What are marijuana withdrawal symptoms?
Withdrawal from marijuana can resemble nicotine withdrawal, involving irritability, anxiety, anger, restlessness, depression, and trouble sleeping. The severity of symptoms varies depending on usage frequency, mental health, marijuana quality, support system, age, and overall health.

What treatment is available for marijuana addiction?
Into Action Recovery offers comprehensive treatment starting with an assessment to create a personalized plan. Programs include a 60-day residential stay for focused recovery, a 30-day transitional program for continued support, and long-term sober living for lasting change. All programs provide counseling, recovery education, skills training, relapse prevention, group therapy, and trauma support.