Marijuana Abuse

Marijuana abuse most often comes in the form of smoking this psychoactive drug extracted from the plant Cannabis sativa. The major biologically active chemical compound in marijuana is THC, short for delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol.  Marijuana abuse is not limited to it being smoked in a self-rolled cigarette (joint), pipe, or water-pipe (bong) since it can also be brewed as a tea or mixed into food.

Negative Physical Effects of Marijuana Abuse and Addiction

The immediate effects of marijuana intoxication are a result of THC’s actions upon the brain. The highest cellular reactions that ultimately lead to the “high” that users experience can occur in the parts of the brain that influence pleasure, memory, thoughts, concentration, sensory and time perception and coordinated movement.  So it is not surprising that marijuana abuse can lead to:

  • Distorted perceptions
  • Impaired coordination
  • Difficulty with thinking , problem solving, learning and with memory

Additionally, marijuana addiction has been linked to numerous health problems with possible serious affects on the heart, respiratory system and mental health.

Long term marijuana abuse can lead to addiction with the user actively seeking and abusing the drug regardless of its known harmful effects in various important social areas of life including: family, friends, school, work and recreational activities. Long-term marijuana abusers can experience difficult and uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms when they try to quit.  Beginning within about a day after first abstaining from marijuana use, users often experience the following withdrawal symptoms:

  • Drug craving
  • Irritability
  • Sleeplessness
  • Decreased appetite
  • Anxiety

Marijuana Addiction Treatment

Those affected by marijuana addiction can find help in outpatient programs. Medication can be prescribed to reduce marijuana withdrawal symptoms. Talk therapy and rest are usually the best practices for this particular addiction treatment. After approximately three to five days, actual cravings for the drug will diminish. The affected individual will learn effective coping skills in order to resist and replace thoughts about using marijuana again. These programs are specifically designed to assist the individual to avoid drug use and experience lasting permanent recovery from marijuana use, abuse and addiction.

If the signs of marijuana abuse or addiction are evident in yourself or someone you love, please contact our free 24-hour helpline at 1-800-943-0566.  A qualified professional will offer you confidential assistance any time you need it.