As marijuana becomes more widespread with legalization in many states, it’s important to understand its effects and how to quit if necessary. Although marijuana is increasingly accepted for medical use, it still carries the potential for addiction.
If you or someone you care about is using marijuana excessively, it may be helpful to explore strategies for quitting or reducing use. Treatment programs and setting personal goals can provide valuable guidance on how to cut down or stop marijuana consumption.
How to Quit Smoking Marijuana
Marijuana use disorder shares similarities with other substance use disorders, as it can lead to dependence and withdrawal symptoms if not addressed properly. However, it’s important to note that the long-term consequences of marijuana use are generally less severe than those associated with substances like alcohol.
That said, marijuana use can still result in harmful side effects and health issues. Therefore, quitting smoking marijuana may be beneficial if you find yourself overusing the substance.
Several treatment options are available for individuals dealing with marijuana dependence or addiction. One effective approach is behavioral therapy programs.
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive-behavioral therapy is a form of psychotherapy designed to help individuals identify the triggers that prompt their use of marijuana. Through CBT, clients work to address and modify the feelings and behaviors associated with these triggers.
Contingency Management
This therapeutic approach involves reinforcing desired behaviors and discouraging undesired ones to help individuals overcome substance abuse issues. Research has shown it to be an effective method for reducing marijuana use and addressing substance use disorders.
Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET)
Motivational enhancement therapy is a counseling approach designed to help individuals adopt a more positive outlook toward treatment and reduce their drug use. It aims to facilitate rapid and internally motivated change. Follow-up sessions focus on reviewing progress and ensuring that patients remain on track with their cessation goals.
For some individuals, marijuana use may not meet the criteria for addiction but can still be problematic and detrimental to mental and physical health. In such cases, behavioral treatment therapy might not be necessary; instead, making a few lifestyle adjustments could lead to success.
One effective strategy is to set personal goals. A practical way to quit using marijuana or smoking tobacco is to establish a specific date for cessation and prepare in advance for that moment. It’s easy to procrastinate by saying, “I’ll stop tomorrow” or “I can quit next week.” However, committing to an actual stop date can increase your resolve.
Additionally, sharing your plan with friends and family can create a support system, hold you accountable, and potentially foster feelings of guilt if you deviate from your decision.
Quitting marijuana can lead to various physical and mental health benefits, but it can also have a significant impact on your finances.
All forms of substance use, including marijuana, come with costs. By completely stopping or reducing your usage, you can save a substantial amount of money. Keeping track of your savings can serve as strong motivation to maintain your efforts to remain marijuana-free.
Is Marijuana Addictive?
Many people believe that marijuana is not an addictive substance, but this is a misconception.
Like all other substances, marijuana has the potential for addiction and can lead to physical dependence. Regular use of marijuana can result in chronic use, known as marijuana use disorder, which can escalate to addiction in severe cases. It’s important to note that individuals who start using marijuana before the age of 18 are four to seven times more likely to develop a marijuana use disorder compared to adults.
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, approximately 4 million people in the United States meet the diagnostic criteria for marijuana use disorder. Of those, around 138,000 sought treatment for marijuana use voluntarily in 2015.
Marijuana use disorder, often referred to as dependence, can cause withdrawal symptoms when the drug is not used. Some common withdrawal symptoms include irritability, mood swings, sleep disturbances, decreased appetite, cravings, and physical discomfort.
Marijuana dependence, similar to other forms of dependence, occurs when the brain adjusts to high levels of the drug. It becomes an addiction when an individual is unable to stop using marijuana, despite it negatively impacting various aspects of their life.
Health Effects of Marijuana
In addition to the risk of addiction, marijuana can have several detrimental effects on both physical and mental health, both in the short term and long term. Its use can impact various systems in the body, including brain health, heart health, lung health, and more.
The Brain
Heavy marijuana use is associated with several short-term effects on the brain, such as difficulties with attention, memory, and learning. It can also impact mood and relationships. Long-term marijuana use can influence brain development, particularly when initiated during the teenage years, leading to reduced attention, memory, and learning capabilities.
These impairments can persist for an extended period and may even become permanent. For younger individuals whose brains are still maturing, marijuana use can result in poorer academic performance and difficulties with memory retention.
The Heart
Marijuana can contribute to various cardiovascular issues. One of its effects is an increased heart rate, which can elevate the risk of stroke and heart disease. When smoked, marijuana delivers THC—the psychoactive component—along with other substances and irritants found in the smoke. Further research is needed to fully understand marijuana’s effects on the circulatory system.
The Lungs
The effect of marijuana on the lungs varies based on the method of consumption. It can be smoked in hand-rolled cigarettes, pipes, bongs, or combined with tobacco in wraps. Regardless of the form, smoked marijuana can lead to lung issues, including scarring and damage to lung blood vessels. Regular smoking increases the risk of bronchitis, persistent cough, and excessive phlegm production.
Mental Health
In addition to physical health effects, marijuana use can pose several mental health risks. Frequent users often experience unpleasant thoughts and feelings of anxiety or paranoia while using the substance. Research has indicated that teenagers who use marijuana are at a higher risk for developing schizophrenia and psychosis later in life. Furthermore, marijuana use has been associated with depression, anxiety, and increased suicide risk among adolescents, though further investigation is needed to clarify these connections.
Additionally, marijuana use can lead to motivational issues and identity confusion. Chronic users may become complacent, feeling indifferent toward inactivity and boredom. This lack of initiative to explore new interests or engage in enjoyable activities can be detrimental. After quitting marijuana, individuals might struggle to rediscover their identity and preferences, complicating their personal growth.
Now What?
As marijuana usage continues to rise across the nation, it’s essential to recognize that it remains a drug with various effects and potential issues. The mental and physical health consequences, along with the risk of addiction, should be carefully considered. Fortunately, treatment options are available for those seeking assistance.
Moreover, marijuana use can sometimes lead to the use of other substances, such as alcohol or opioids, which can also spiral out of control. If you or a loved one is facing these challenges, Sunrise Recovery in Clarksville Indiana is here to help. Please visit our website and contact our admissions staff today.
