Most people assume that marijuana is a recreational drug that will not lead to addiction or abuse, but the fact of the matter is that marijuana is a dangerous gateway drug that can lead an individual to more powerful, dangerous substances in the future. According to recent studies, roughly one percent of adults in the United States use marijuana and 300 of those will come down with serious marijuana addiction. If you suspect your loved one of having a marijuana addiction, they will need help, but you cannot help them without understanding how marijuana works and the powerful hold it can have over a person’s ability to stop using the drug altogether.
Marijuana Addiction
Marijuana uses the active ingredient THC to provide the user with a euphoric, relaxed sensation. Most individuals who use marijuana will report a sense of calm and relief from anxiety and even depression. Over time, this euphoric feeling will require heavier doses to provide the same feelings and the user may turn to different drugs when marijuana no longer provides it for them.
Marijuana Abuse
The more a person uses marijuana, the higher their risks. Though research is still being conducted, some experts feel that there is a high-risk linkage between heavy marijuana use and lung cancer. Since marijuana can decrease a man’s testosterone, his sperm level can be considerably lower than those who do not smoke. Furthermore, marijuana in heavier doses is known to provide dangerous, short-term psychological effects that can lead to serious health issues including:
- Paranoia
- Delusions
- Anxiety or severe depression
- Random thinking
- Thought distortions
When the individual withdrawals from the pot or their “high” wear off, they can suffer from extreme mood swings, decreased appetite, inability to sleep, and severe aggression that can cause harm to themselves or others.
Marijuana Intervention
Believe it or not, marijuana addiction has a powerful hold on those suffering from it. Not only does the individual have a psychological dependency, but eventually they will become physically dependent on the effects of smoking marijuana. During an intervention for marijuana abuse, it is important to recognize the chemical dependency created from long-term use and help your loved one cope with that. In most cases, individuals abusing marijuana want to stop; only psychologically they cannot. By conducting an intervention you can let your loved one know that you understand their addiction and that you are ready to help prepare them for the road of recovery.
Marijuana Addiction Treatment
It is important to help your loved one get treatment for marijuana addiction before they turn to other, more dangerous substances. Typically treatment for marijuana use will involve therapy and a 12-step program that allows the individual to cope with their psychological and physical dependency. In some cases, your loved one may be prescribed anti-anxiety or depression medications to cope with the symptoms of withdrawal.
If you are ready to help your loved one get over their addiction to marijuana and get on with their lives, contact the professionals at LifeLine Intervention today by calling 866-384-8411 now.
