When we talk about cannabis, you often hear the terms “Indica” and “Sativa.” These aren’t just fancy names; they describe two main types of cannabis plants, each with its own unique set of characteristics and potential effects. Think of it like different breeds of dogs – a German Shepherd looks and acts differently than a Chihuahua. It’s the same with Indica and Sativa.
Indica plants are usually shorter and bushier, with broader leaves. They tend to grow in cooler, mountainous regions. Sativa plants, on the other hand, are tall and slender with narrow leaves, often found in warmer climates. These physical differences aren’t just for show; they contribute to the different ways these plants can affect you.
Historically, these different strains have been used for centuries in various cultures. Indica strains have been associated with relaxation and calming effects, often used in traditional medicine for pain relief or sleep issues. Sativa strains were often used for their uplifting and energizing effects, sometimes in social gatherings or spiritual practices. These days, the lines between Indica and Sativa are often blurred due to cross-breeding, so you rarely find a “pure” Indica or Sativa. Most of what you see today are hybrids. However, understanding the basics can still help you understand the plant and it’s potential impact on your recovery.
Relapse is a tough word, especially when you’re dealing with substance abuse. Simply put, relapse is when someone goes back to using drugs or alcohol after a period of not using. It’s like taking a step backward on your recovery path. It’s not a sign of failure, but rather a sign that you might need to adjust your strategy for recovery. This is very normal part of journey.
Think of it like this: if you’re trying to lose weight, and you stop following your diet and exercise plan, it’s easy to go back to old eating habits. Relapse in addiction is similar. It happens when old patterns of thinking and behavior start creeping back in.
There are lots of reasons why someone might relapse. Often, it’s not just one thing, but many things that come together. These can be emotional triggers like stress, anxiety, or sadness. They can be social triggers, like being around people who use or places where you used to use. Sometimes, even positive events can trigger a relapse because they might bring up feelings that feel too intense to handle. This is why relapse prevention is a very important part of recovery journey.
Now, let’s talk about cannabis, or marijuana. It’s a tricky subject because while it’s legal in many places, it’s also something that many people who struggle with addiction have used. Some people use it to relax, some to feel better, and some just because everyone around them does.
For those who are in recovery from other substance abuse issues, cannabis can be a potential trigger for relapse. It’s like a doorway back to old habits. Think of it as a ‘gateway’ drug, though not in the traditional sense. It can bring back the desire to use other substances, it can also make the recovery process hard to cope with. For some people who have used other drugs in the past, the use of cannabis can make them want to seek more of that ‘high’ or it can create feelings of guilt.
There’s a lot of debate on whether or not cannabis use is acceptable in recovery. Some people believe that it’s harmless and doesn’t interfere with recovery, especially if used in moderation. Others feel that it’s a relapse trigger and can lead to old behaviors, it can also change some people’s thinking patterns and makes them feel like they are ‘ok’ and have everything under control. For someone in recovery, the aim is not ‘ok’ but rather sobriety and full recovery.
Asana Recovery works with most PPO plans, covering up to 100%. See if your insurance can help fund your journey. Click below to get a free quote.
We get it. Addiction recovery is tough. That’s why our programs are founded and staffed by people in recovery – people who truly understand.
So, how do Indica and Sativa actually affect you? It’s not just about whether you feel relaxed or energized, it’s also about how these effects can play out in your addiction recovery journey.
Generally speaking, Indica strains are known for their relaxing effects. They can make you feel calm, sleepy, and even a little heavy in your body. Think of them as the “couch-lock” kind of marijuana. These effects are often because Indica has different levels of chemicals that create these relaxation. On the other hand, Sativa strains are known for their uplifting and energizing effects. They can make you feel more alert, creative, and talkative. You might feel like getting up and going. Sativa tends to increase brain activity, which for some people can lead to anxiety and increase paranoia.
Now, how might this play into addiction? If you’re using Indica to relax from stress, it might start to make you depend on it for stress relief which is not a great way to deal with it. This can become a habit, and that habit can turn into a problem. Sativa can increase your feelings, and if you’re dealing with anxiety or other mental health issue, that can make it worse and trigger a need to cope. For those in recovery who are trying to avoid using substances to cope, it may take away from the coping mechanism they have learned or are learning.
Both Indica and Sativa can have effects on your mental health. Indica might make you more prone to isolation due to it’s sleepy and relaxing effects. While Sativa can create anxiety or paranoia, and this can be even more pronounced if you already have anxiety or depression. These mental health impacts can be a trigger for relapse in some people. If you have a dual diagnosis where you have both mental health and addiction issue, dual diagnosis treatment might be something for you.
When it comes to relapse, both Indica and Sativa can be potential triggers, but in different ways. Understanding how these strains might influence your risk of relapse is important.
Indica, with its relaxing and sedative effects, might lead some people to relapse if they’re trying to deal with stress or insomnia, or any difficult emotion. You might start using it to ‘numb’ the feeling or to escape what you are going through. This can quickly turn back to using substances to cope instead of dealing with the feelings and emotion in a healthy way. If you are looking to be able to cope with everyday life and learn better habits, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can be of assistance.
Sativa, on the other hand, could be a trigger if you’re trying to avoid feeling anxious or overwhelmed. The energizing and uplifting effects can turn into an intense and anxious experience, especially if you’re prone to it. This can lead to a difficult experience, and you may turn to other drugs to cope with that.
It’s important to remember that everyone’s different. What might trigger a relapse for one person might not affect another. Some people report feeling fine with some strains, while others have a difficult time. There is no set of rules, so understanding yourself and what might trigger is key. Understanding how you might react to certain things will help you to make better decisions in your recovery journey.
So, how do recovery programs handle cannabis use? It’s a tricky topic, and there are many perspectives.
Traditionally, most addiction treatment programs have abstained from any substance use, and this includes cannabis. The idea is that using any substance, even something that is legal, can put people at risk of relapse. Many people struggling with addiction are trying to find new ways to cope, and some believe the use of cannabis is just another form of coping with substances.
However, some people feel that cannabis is a ‘less harmful’ drug and that moderate use may be acceptable, especially in people with chronic pain. The discussion is often heated and there is no consensus. The real question should not be if it’s ok or not, but what impact it can have on your recovery journey. It’s vital to have open conversations with your treatment team about your specific needs and concerns. If you have other needs such as your mental health, then a Mental Health Outpatient Treatment may be beneficial.
The most important thing to consider in your recovery is what is best for you. Having support from your therapy team and program is important to make the best decisions for your situation. If you feel that the use of cannabis might impede your progress in recovery, then consider the option of refraining. This is a decision you will have to make yourself in partnership with those you trust.
At Asana Recovery, we understand that everyone’s journey is different. We’re not here to judge, we’re here to support you in your recovery process. Whether it’s Alcohol Addiction Treatment or Drug Addiction Treatment, we make a holistic approach to your journey.
Our approach is to talk openly about your goals and concerns. We offer a range of programs to suit different needs including Residential Treatment for those who need intensive care to Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) for those who can live at home, while attending program, and Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) for those who need a higher level of care but can live at home. We also understand that many have other responsibilities at home, so Outpatient Services might be best solution for you.
We are committed to helping you stay sober, no matter what substances you used before. If cannabis is a concern for you, we’ll work with you to address it, and we offer various therapies to help you better cope, like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for Addiction. These therapies can help you find healthy coping mechanisms without relying on substances. For those who need additional medical support, we offer Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) and Medically-Assisted Detox to help you start on your recovery journey. If you’re in a relationship and would like to do recovery as a couple, we even have Couples Treatment available. We have many options for everyone’s situation. We even offer a Virtual IOP for those who cannot make it to our facility.
We understand that addiction affects the whole family, and we are here to support you and your loved ones. Our goal is to empower you to live your life to the fullest, free from the grips of addiction. If you are worried about relapse, or are trying to navigate the use of cannabis in your recovery journey, we are here to help you.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, unsure of your next step, or worried about relapse, we want you to know that you’re not alone. At Asana Recovery, we are here to offer support and compassionate care. We believe that recovery is possible, and we are here to walk that path with you.
Taking the first step can feel scary, but it’s also the most important step you can take toward a healthier and happier future. We invite you to reach out to us, no matter where you are in your journey. Don’t hesitate to Contact Us today.
We also understand that you may have questions about your insurance coverage. It is a valid concern and we want to be sure that you are able to focus on your recovery journey. We have an easy Insurance Verification form that can help you find out what is covered. If you don’t have insurance or want to explore other payment options, we have information on Private Pay and Payment Options. We believe that everyone deserves the best care, and we work with you to ensure that finances are not a barrier to your recovery.
We want to assure you that you will be taken care of by our compassionate team of doctors, nurses and therapists at our facility. We focus on individualized care as every one journey is different. If you have specific needs, such as needing a Pet-Friendly Rehab, we can work to meet those needs as well. We strive to provide an environment where you can feel safe, supported, and comfortable as you begin your journey to recovery.
Navigating the world of addiction recovery can be challenging. Understanding how things like Indica and Sativa might impact your recovery journey is just one piece of the puzzle. It’s important to stay informed and keep the lines of communication open with your support system.
Remember, it’s okay to ask for help. It’s not a sign of weakness, it’s a sign of strength. Whether you’re struggling with the use of cannabis, relapse, or any other challenge related to substance use, there are solutions and there is support. Focus on your recovery and what is best for your future. We encourage you to seek the support you need from your treatment team, and friends, and family. There is hope for a brighter tomorrow.
At Asana Recovery, we’re committed to providing you with the resources and support you need to build a lasting recovery. We encourage you to take the next step and reach out, you are not alone, and we are here to help you. Focus on your health and recovery, and make the decisions that best serve you. We believe in you. We believe that you can not just survive, but thrive in your recovery journey. Let us be part of that journey with you.
Take your first step towards lasting recovery. At Asana, we offer effective, insurance-covered treatment for addiction and mental health, guided by experts who understand because they’ve been there. Start your healing today.
This book has helped so many men and women; and we want to give it you for FREE. Get signed up today and discover how to unlock the grip of addiction and get back to living your best life.
In this book, you’ll discover…
— The Most Common Misconceptions About Addiction and Rehab
— Why Rock Bottom is a Myth and What You Can Do About It
–The Steps to Healing From Trauma, Both Mentally and Emotionally
–And much more!
Asana Recovery is licensed and certified by the State Department of Health Care Services.
© Copyright 2024 Asana Recovery™ | All Rights Reserved | Privacy Policy
You could save up to 100% of your treatment using your Insurance.
