Marijuana Addiction

Allen’s Family Counseling Center treats substance use disorders and co-occurring behavioral health issues. Our licensed psychiatrists work with the underlying psychiatric disorders that often accompany a marijuana addiction. We believe that the key to long-lasting healing and recovery is to treat the entire person and all underlying factors that are the root causes of marijuana addiction.

Marijuana is the most commonly abused illicit drug in the United States. Marijuana is commonly referred to as pot, herb, Mary Jane, and grass. The marijuana plant, also known as hemp, produces potent flowering buds. Some people ingest marijuana by eating it or making tea. Many other people smoke marijuana in hand-rolled cigarettes called joints; some use pipes or water pipes called bongs. Marijuana cigars, or blunts, are also a favorite method.

What are the Effects and Risks of Marijuana?

Marijuana is a powerful drug that targets the brain and cannabinoid receptors. These receptors play a significant role in brain development and function. With regular use, marijuana will overstimulate receptors in the brain and produce difficulty with thinking, problem-solving, coordination, learning, and memory.

Because marijuana impairs coordination and judgment, the effects double a driver’s risk of being in an accident. When marijuana is used in conjunction with alcohol, the combined result is worse than either substance alone.

Who is at Risk?

Most individuals with a marijuana addiction start smoking the plant form in their youth, when their brains undergo significant development. Marijuana’s effects on the developing brain create unique risks. When young people use marijuana, they may experience a decrease in cognitive abilities. Daily drug use alters vital neural connections within the brain, leading to weakened verbal communication skills, lowered learning capabilities, and a shorter attention span.

Researchers have discovered an association between chronic marijuana use and mental illness. The link has been demonstrated with later development of psychosis, and the risk increases for those who start using marijuana when they are young. Marijuana users often struggle with other mental health issues such as depression, anxiety and suicidal thoughts.

How Can I Tell if I Have a Marijuana Addiction?

The likelihood of forming a marijuana addiction is increased for those who start young. Many don’t believe that marijuana affects brain function and are unable to distinguish any harmful impact from the drug. This debate is ongoing. Marijuana is a substance that can hinder a person’s physical growth. In addition to the possible effects on cognitive development and mental health, marijuana smoke is an irritant to the lungs. Frequent marijuana users can develop many of the same respiratory problems as tobacco smokers. The effects include a persistent cough, increased phlegm production, and respiratory infection.