Marijuana, also known as cannabis or weed, is a drug that comes from the cannabis plant. It can produce effects like euphoria, laughter, dizziness, drowsiness, and more. You can smoke it, vaporize it, or consume it in foods and drinks.
The mind-altering ingredient in weed is known as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). In recent years, marijuana has been legalized for medicinal and recreational use in various states. While there are some benefits to consuming cannabis, it is possible to become addicted to it.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly 20% of Americans used marijuana in 2021.[1]
If you regularly consume weed, you might be wondering how to tell if you are addicted. Some of the signs of marijuana addiction include being unable to control how much you use, experiencing cravings for cannabis, and dealing with withdrawal symptoms when you stop using it.
- What are the effects of marijuana?
- Can you get addicted to cannabis?
- What are the signs of weed addiction?
- How can you avoid marijuana use disorder?
What are the Effects of Weed?
Cannabis or THC products can produce mind-altering effects like changes in mood, thoughts, and sensory perception. You might feel euphoric and calm when you smoke weed. It is also possible to experience adverse effects like anxiety, paranoia, or nausea.
The common effects of marijuana include:[2]
- Altered senses
- Feelings of euphoria and changes in mood
- Impaired memory
- Trouble thinking clearly or concentrating
- Disorientation and confusion
- Dizziness or drowsiness
- Relaxation or sedation
- Fits of laughter
- Coordination issues and slowed reaction times
- Anxiety or paranoia
- Changes in heart rate and breathing
- Dry mouth
- Nausea
- Increased appetite
Consuming THC in high doses increases the risk of experiencing adverse effects. It is possible to develop the symptoms of psychosis when consuming large doses of weed.[3] This means you could experience delusions, paranoia, hallucinations, and a detachment from reality.
Can You Get Addicted to Marijuana?
While many people view marijuana as a safe substance to abuse, it is possible to become addicted. People who use cannabis frequently are more likely to develop an addiction. It is also common among people who start using cannabis at an early age.
According to the CDC, “Recent research estimated that approximately 3 in 10 people who use cannabis have cannabis use disorder.”[1]
Unfortunately, weed addiction can worsen your mental health. The American Psychiatric Association (APA) reports that “cannabis may exacerbate or hasten the start of psychiatric illness, particularly in young people. Among people with depression, cannabis use is associated with increased rates of suicidal ideation and attempts.”[4]
While marijuana addiction does not put you at risk of life-threatening overdoses, it can have a huge impact on your life. You might find that you are not upholding responsibilities at home, school, or work because of your cannabis abuse. It can also increase the symptoms of underlying mental disorders, causing daily life to become difficult.
What are the Signs of Cannabis Addiction?
If you smoke marijuana, you might be wondering what the signs of addiction are. Using it long-term can result in a substance use disorder.
The signs of weed addiction include:[5]
- Using cannabis in larger amounts or for longer than intended
- Wanting to quit or cut down on weed use but being unsuccessful
- Spending a lot of time obtaining, using, or recovering from the use of marijuana
- Experiencing strong urges or cravings to use cannabis
- Failing to meet responsibilities at home, school, or work because of weed use
- Continuing to use marijuana despite experiencing social or interpersonal relationship issues
- Using cannabis in risky situations, such as while driving
- Continuing to use weed despite experiencing adverse physical and mental health effects as a direct result
- Needing to increase the amount of marijuana you use to experience the desired effect
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when you stop using cannabis
To qualify for a cannabis use disorder, you only need to experience two of the above-mentioned symptoms.
How to Avoid Weed Addiction
The only way to ensure you do not develop a marijuana addiction is to avoid using it. That said, if you are consuming medical marijuana to treat a condition, there are some ways to ensure you do not develop a substance use disorder.
Ways to avoid an addiction when smoking marijuana include:
- Pay attention to why you are using weed and avoid self-medicating mental health symptoms
- Only use marijuana when you are treating a medical condition
- Avoid making marijuana consumption a pattern, only use it occasionally and as needed
- Seek support for your cannabis use from a therapist or medical professional
- Do not begin using marijuana at a young age, as this increases the likelihood of addiction
- Consider alternative treatments for medical conditions you may be treating with THC
If you think you have a cannabis use disorder, you should seek help from a drug rehab program. At The Best Treatment Center, we can provide you with the tools and support you need to achieve long-term sobriety.
Find Help for Marijuana Abuse and Addiction
If you or a loved one suffers from weed addiction, The Best Treatment Center is here to help. We offer a comprehensive drug rehab program that includes medical detox, behavioral therapies, and relapse prevention planning.
Contact us today to learn more about our marijuana addiction treatment center.
References:
- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Cannabis Facts and Stats
- Cambridge University: Pharmacology and effects of cannabis: A brief review
- The National Library of Medicine (NLM): High-potency cannabis and the risk of psychosis
- The American Psychiatric Association (APA): Cannabis: Understanding the Risks
- Medscape: Cannabis-Related Disorders Clinical Presentation
