Getting Help for a Marijuana Addiction

Cannabis addiction is rarely discussed. Many see it as a non habit forming drug, contesting that because it has medical benefits, it can’t possibly be addictive. However, the marijuana addicts who experience very real withdrawal symptoms would disagree. Though marijuana addiction is not easy to cultivate, there are some who find themselves addicted to the substance and feel that programs designed for alcoholics or cocaine users are ill suited to their particular situations.

Is It That Big of a Problem?

According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 28.5 million Americans over the age of 12 abused marijuana at least once in 2008. About 6,000 Americans use it for the first time every year, although it is still classified as a controlled substance and allowed for medical use in only 13 states. For most of the 11.5% of Americans who smoked marijuana in the last year, the substance is viewed as non addictive. It is this perception, perhaps, that makes cannabis addiction an easy trap to fall into. Most marijuana addicts began as casual smokers, not realizing that occasional use leads to frequent use which leads to addiction.

What Are the Symptoms?

Marijuana addicts typically begin to experience withdrawal symptoms within one to three days of abstinence, and the effects can last for several months. They often cause relapses, making support an essential part of the quitting process. Symptoms often include:

• Cravings for marijuana
• Depression
• Weight fluctuation
• Sexual dysfunction
• Changes in appetite

Is There Help?

The plight of marijuana addicts is beginning to gain more attention, and several books have been written on the subject. In some areas, support groups are also available where marijuana addicts can go through the quitting process with other addicts and with support from trained professionals. Some detoxification centers are also available. It is almost certain that support for recovering marijuana addicts will become more and more prevalent as more states begin to legalize the drug for medicinal and recreational use. Learn more at this link.