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Can Marijuana Be Addictive?

Many people have been led to believe that marijuana is a harmless drug because it is “naturally occurring.” Unfortunately, this widespread belief is mostly based on myth. Like virtually any drug, marijuana can cause health problems when abused, and it can even be addictive to certain people.

Most types of marijuana, whether smoked or ingested, do not contain a chemical that is an identified addictive substance. For example, nicotine in cigarettes is known to be addictive by its very nature, but no such substance is in most marijuana. However, this does not mean that marijuana can’t be addictive. When someone becomes dependent on the use of a substance – be it marijuana, an opiate, or the caffeine in their coffee – they are addicted to it.

Countless Americans live with marijuana addiction but probably don’t realize it because marijuana addiction can look much different than other, more outwardly drastic types of drug addiction. Instead, it can begin with subtle signs that they might initially ignore.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), marijuana addiction can look like:

  • Finding yourself unable to stop using marijuana even though you tried to quit.
  • Feeling a persistent desire to have more marijuana when not currently using it.
  • Halting other parts of your life to use marijuana instead.
  • Struggling with work, school, or family life due to a possible connection to marijuana use.

How Can You Break a Marijuana Addiction?

If you think you are addicted to marijuana, then you are probably interested in learning how to break that addiction. As with so many other forms of drug addiction or dependence, it is important to start with the assistance of a professional. Specifically, a trusted medical provider can diagnose you with marijuana dependence, which could be a mental or chemical dependence.

You should also seek the guidance of a professional addiction treatment center if you believe you need help overcoming marijuana addiction. Attempting to quit an addictive substance without any support can be more difficult. It can also be dangerous if you experience withdrawal symptoms.

Marijuana can cause a variety of withdrawal symptoms, such as:

  • Irritability and mood swings
  • Heightened anxiety, depression, and paranoia
  • Insomnia and night terrors
  • Drastic weight loss accompanied by reduced appetite
  • Nausea or abdominal pain
  • Headaches, tremors, and chronic discomfort

Many of these withdrawal symptoms will happen within just a few days of not using marijuana if you have become dependent on it. Due to the likelihood of early-onset symptoms, it is even more important to seek professional assistance at the beginning of your recovery journey.

For people throughout Georgia who want to take the first step towards lasting sobriety, Mount Sinai Wellness Center can help. We have customizable drug addiction treatment programs that normally focus on addictions to “harder” substances like cocaine and heroin, but we are always here to hear from anyone in our communities. We are happy to help however we can. Contact us at any time to learn more.

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