With more and more states making marijuana legal, you may be wondering, “Is marijuana addictive?” This is a very common question, and there are many varying opinions about the answer. Marijuana is a natural substance that isn’t nearly as dangerous as other substances out there like opioids. While this is true, it’s important to understand the facts behind marijuana and whether or not this substance is addictive.
Is Marijuana Addictive by Definition?
The simple definition of addiction is when a person continues any action despite the negative consequences in their life. If you stick to this very cut and dry definition, you’ll have the answer to, “Is marijuana addictive?” It’s important to understand that regardless that the substance is a natural plant, it can begin to cause problems. Other addictions also follow this pattern of continuing an action despite negative consequences. This is why there are so many 12-step fellowships that don’t have anything to do with drugs or alcohol.
- Overeaters Anonymous
- Gamblers Anonymous
- Sex Addicts Anonymous
All of the above-listed 12-step programs have nothing to do with drugs or alcohol, but these actions can become addictive. Addiction isn’t about a substance, but about how the brain copes with life and processes dopamine. Addiction involves the rewiring of the neuropathways in the brain that are responsible for reward-based learning. As a person continues to turn to marijuana as a solution, they develop a psychological dependence.
Is Marijuana Addictive for Teens?
It’s said that marijuana is a gateway drug to other drugs, and you may be wondering if this is true. Studies from the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), show that more young people are progressing to much harder drugs sooner. We know that young people are turning to substances to deal with life more than ever before. The progression of addiction comes from the original substance of choice no longer solving the original problem.
Getting Help for Marijuana Addiction
If you have found that your marijuana use is taking control of your life, let Serenity House Detox & Recovery help. When you go through marijuana withdrawal, you may need to go through a THC detox, and we’re here to help. Marijuana isn’t as difficult to quit as are opiates, but it can be very uncomfortable. Our goal here is to help you learn how to begin living a better life without the use of this substance or any other drug or alcohol. Some of the programs we offer to help you with this include:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Family therapy
- Group therapy
- Meditation therapy
- Individual therapy
Serenity House Detox & Recovery wants to be part of your story by helping you set up a foundation for recovery. Find out more by giving us a call today at 866-294-5306.
