Recent changes in national state laws have made marijuana readily available to a wider audience for medical reasons as well as recreational use. However, whether used legally or illegally, it is possible to misuse the drug, become addicted, and suffer from marijuana use disorder.
Marijuana contains a chemical called THC, which is very similar to the natural one your brain produces (anandamide) that sends messages between nerve cells within your body. If marijuana is taken regularly, your brain can cease to create its own and grow dependent on THC instead.
Marijuana abuse is feeling as though you need the substance and experiencing withdrawal symptoms when you go through dormant periods of not using it. When you stop, you may suffer these side effects:
- Loss of appetite
- Irritability and mood swings
- Anxiety or a state of being restless
- Insomnia
Abuse of this substance becomes an addiction once you find yourself unable to stop using it, though it negatively affects areas of your life such as work and personal relationships.
There are numerous avenues to take in order to obtain help, including but not limited to:
Verbal Therapy: Many people have found cognitive, behavioral therapy to be exceptionally helpful, as it helps you comprehend thoughts and behaviors that lead to your drug use and replace them with alternate, healthier ones.
Motivational Incentives: Also referred to as contingency management, this form of assistance involves gaining rewards for remaining drug-free. You work cooperatively with mental health therapists or addiction specialists to set goals and design a reward system that works for you.
Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET): This therapy method is designed to help you stick with changing your behavior and habits and typically includes just two to four sessions. Your counselor works with you at a more personal level, rather than as an expert, and this process is often practiced along with other kinds of therapy.
Medication: While the FDA has not approved any medicine to serve as a solution to marijuana abuse, ongoing studies are being conducted to find out if medicines used for anxiety, sleep, and other issues may be of any assistance. If you suffer from any psychological condition such as anxiety or depression, treatment with medication may help you to stop abusing marijuana.
We at Asana Recovery know the struggles of aiming to recover from addiction. While plenty of people may believe they can do it solo, rehabs are absolutely paramount in striving against dependency. It will not be at all easy or without hardships, but can be done with a solid support system! Therapy and aftercare programs can address each cognitive facet that points toward your current addiction while also helping you build structures to more efficiently handle life minus substance abuse.
Closely supervised detoxification and in-house treatment programs at Asana Recovery are offered in a relaxing and encouraging atmosphere. We’re always committed to making sure of each person’s long-term recovery while also guiding you down a path toward a much happier, addiction-free future. There’s no time like now, as we are always available to chat with you. Call us at (949) 438-4504, and ask about our comprehensive, in-depth drug and alcohol addiction treatment programs today!
