Marijuana is an illegal drug which is commonly smoked as leaves / heads of the cannabis plant. Marijuana is a plant that contains psychoactive compounds, mainly tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which produce mind-altering effects when consumed. It has been used for various purposes throughout history, including recreational, medicinal and spiritual practices.
The perception of marijuana has evolved with some countries and states legalising its recreational and medicinal use. However, it is still considered a controlled substance in many parts of the world due to its potential for abuse and addiction. The history of marijuana intertwines with the use of cannabis plants, also known as hemp, traditionally utilised for making rope, paper and fabrics. Hemp was a mandated crop in colonial America with notable figures like George Washington cultivating it. Initially, these plants had low levels of THC, the psychoactive component of cannabis. Medicinal use of cannabis in America began in the 1850s with cannabis extract products for treating pain and muscle spasms. This led to pharmaceutical regulations in some states, labeling cannabis-containing products as poisons and restricting their availability to prescriptions.
Today, marijuana is a Schedule I substance federally, recognised as having a high abuse potential and no accepted medicinal use. However, several states have legalised it for recreational and medicinal purposes with medical marijuana used to treat specific conditions. The debate over marijuana’s legalisation for medical purposes continues, as clinical evidence doesn’t conclusively support its therapeutic benefits over health risks. For a drug to be recognised as legitimate medicine by the FDA, it must have consistent, measurable ingredients, a criterion challenging to meet with cannabis due to its varying chemical compounds and usual consumption method (smoking).
When smoked, marijuana’s THC rapidly enters the bloodstream from the lungs affecting the brain and other organs. It acts on brain cell cannabinoid receptors, part of the endocannabinoid system important for brain development and function. This system is over-activated by marijuana, leading to effects like altered perceptions, mood changes, impaired coordination, difficulty in thinking and problem-solving, disrupted learning, memory challenges and decreased appetite. Research shows that regular marijuana use can negatively impact life satisfaction, mental and physical health, relationships and academic or career achievements. It’s associated with a higher school dropout rate and workplace issues like increased absences, tardiness, accidents, compensation claims and job turnover.
When it comes to addiction treatment and rehab, “marijuana addiction” refers to the compulsive and problematic use of the drug, despite negative consequences. Individuals struggling with marijuana addiction may experience withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, insomnia, decreased appetite and cravings when they try to quit. In the changing social context of marijuana use, recognising a problem and quitting can be complex, similar to the challenges faced with alcohol. The increased normalisation of marijuana blurs the line of addiction making the decision to quit nuanced. Many users, even if dependent or addicted, may not perceive their usage as problematic but could still greatly benefit from addiction treatment. Daily users, particularly for medical purposes with a prescription, aren’t necessarily considered addicts if their use is controlled. However, those unable to regulate their consumption may fit the criteria for a substance use disorder or addiction. Predominantly, individuals seeking treatment for marijuana addiction are chronic users who have repeatedly failed to quit on their own. If you relate to this struggle, reaching out to a treatment provider is advised.
Treatment options for marijuana addiction typically include counselling, behavioural therapies, support groups and sometimes medication. Treatment for marijuana addiction typically aligns with standard protocols used for other drug addictions. This includes traditional evidence-based methods like twelve-step programs, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and both group and individual therapy. The intensity of the treatment depends on factors like the severity of the addiction, the presence of physical withdrawal symptoms and the potential for a dual-diagnosis (addiction to another substance). While many patients can manage their recovery through outpatient services, including counselling, increased physical activity and group therapy, those with more complex cases, such as a dual-diagnosis, may require more intensive inpatient treatment programs.
Marijuana is an illegal/semi-legal drug which is commonly smoked as leaves / heads of the cannabis plant. Get help from qualified counsellors.What is Marijuana? Addiction Guide - All You Need to Know
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Rehab care is a good option if you are at risk of experiencing strong withdrawal symptoms when you try stop a substance. This option would also be recommended if you have experienced recurrent relapses or if you have tried a less-intensive treatment without success.
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