Tell-Tale Signs Your Loved One is Addicted to Marijuana

Many people are becoming increasingly aware of the years-long fight against the opioid epidemic in the U.S. However, just outside of the limelight, there is a rising, toxic relationship developing between people across the country and marijuana. This drug is made from the dried leaves and flowers of a cannabis plant and is steadily rising as one of the most commonly misused substances around the world.

THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is the principal psychoactive component of the cannabis plant and is what can make marijuana so addictive. The sudden spike in marijuana addiction in recent years is likely due to the legalization of cannabis production in various states, as well as the popularization of CBD products. CBD (cannabidiol) is a by-product of the cannabis plant and unlike THC, it produces no psychoactive effects or “high.”

However, some CBD products—often called “full-spectrum” CBD—do have a small amount of THC in them. Because of this, individuals are often given a false sense of confidence when it comes to the reality of marijuana usage.

How does marijuana cause addiction?

While CBD is gaining traction as a health-boosting drug with an abundance of evidence-based medicinal properties, it’s a far cry from the marijuana that you would find in recreational dispensaries or on the streets.

Cannabis being under the spotlight for its relaxing and euphoric side effects may make it seem like it’s the perfect drug to alleviate stress and anxiety, but this makes it easy to abuse. Like any drug, when abuse occurs, it can cause serious problems with your mental and physical health. Though many believe that the signs of addiction to marijuana do not reveal themselves in harmful ways, in truth the severity of the symptoms can vary greatly depending on the person.

Below are some of the most common physical and mental signs of marijuana addiction that you should be on the look out for if you believe a loved one has become addicted.

Physical Symptoms of Marijuana Addiction

• Bloodshot eyes
• Cottonmouth
• Unnatural increase in appetite
• Lethargy
• Couch lock
• Impaired balance

Mental Symptoms of Marijuana Addiction

• Inability to focus
• Delayed reaction
• Misguided judgment
• Lack of ability to track time
• Anxiety
• Paranoia
• Mood swings

While the appropriate use of marijuana is responsible for clear-headedness and mitigating chronic pain in many medical users, abusing the drug can do the exact opposite. Teenagers and young adults who are under 25 years old are even more vulnerable to its damaging effects as the substance can negatively impair the brain’s development.

Marijuana is also known to interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system. Though this system remains under preliminary research, it is believed that it may be involved in regulating physiological and cognitive processes, including reproduction, immunity, appetite, pain-sensation, mood, and memory, as well as mediating the effects of cannabis. When people smoke or consume marijuana in excess, it can trigger anxiety and further compromise a person’s ability to lead a productive life.

However, this does not mean that recovery isn’t possible. Marijuana addiction help is available to those who wish to discontinue marijuana usage and get back to a living substance free life. 

Fight Addiction with the Right Help from Inner Voyage Recovery

Substance abuse is one of the most destructive habits that millions of people around the world struggle with everyday. Addiction does not discriminate between demographics, affecting teenagers and adults alike. From the opioid epidemic to the rising number of marijuana enthusiasts turned addicts, failing to give these issues the proper attention they deserve can destroy a person’s quality of life in more ways than one.

It can be difficult to know when to seek help for marijuana usage, but there are a few surefire signs that indicate you might need assistance. If you’re having trouble performing everyday activities without the use of marijuana or you’re unable to stop using marijuana when the effects start impacting your daily life, then it’s time to reach out for help. Our multiple treatment programs include Partial Hospitalization Programming, Intensive Outpatient Programming, Outpatient Programming, and a young adult rehab to help you find treatment that best fits your schedule. 

At Inner Voyage Recovery Center, we aspire to help you unlearn your unhealthy habits and establish positive connections that can pave the way for a successful recovery from your addiction. With help from our personalized Woodstock drug treatment center, you can break the cycle of addiction and move forward with a sober lifestyle. We offer programs and counseling to help you conquer your addiction.

If you or a loved one is fighting against marijuana addiction, get in touch with our addiction treatment center today to see how we can help. (470) 523-4606