Marijuana has long been a popular and controversial substance. Often used for pain relief, insomnia, and euphoria, weed is increasingly common as it becomes less stigmatized and more accessible across the United States. There is a long-standing debate over whether or not marijuana is addictive. Like other substances that increase dopamine in the brain, it is possible to develop a weed addiction.
If you or someone you love is looking for drug addiction treatment in New Hampshire, A Better State can help. Whether you’re struggling with weed or illicit drugs and alcohol, our holistic, trauma-informed addiction treatment programs provide dual diagnosis and evidence-based outpatient treatment to fit your schedule. Call us now at 781.412.1488 to learn more about marijuana addiction and treatment.
Is Weed Addictive?
Have you ever asked yourself, “Is marijuana addictive?” Well, marijuana addiction is more common than most people think. Also known as cannabis use disorder or CUD, weed addiction can develop from medicinal and recreational use. Despite their many benefits, both the chemical compounds THC and CBD can lead to substance use disorder.
Most commonly used to treat chronic pain, anxiety, and insomnia, CBD relaxes the nervous system and blocks pain. THC provides a “high,” altering the perception of shapes, colors, and objects in space and relaxing the nervous system. The euphoric feelings of THC can lead to weed addiction. Unfortunately, for some, THC and THC overdose can cause paranoia and hallucinations.
While uncommon, it is possible to overdose on weed or experience adverse reactions, including:
- Intense nausea
- Vomiting
- Confusion
- Paranoia
- Hallucinations
- High blood pressure
- Increased heart rate
- Panic attacks
Habitual marijuana use can cause cyclical nausea, vomiting, and intense stomach pain. These symptoms are known as CHS, a syndrome that can lead to digestive problems, including malnourishment.
Marijuana Addiction Treatment
While weed is not as harmful as illicit drugs, frequent use is often a sign of co-occurring disorders like depression, anxiety, and unprocessed trauma. Weed creates a dopamine reward pattern in the brain by releasing high dopamine levels. When the brain receives dopamine, it craves more. This is often a leading cause of weed addiction and can make substances more addictive, especially for those struggling with mental health conditions and unresolved trauma. For most, marijuana provides an escape. Chronic use is often a sign someone needs treatment. Like other addiction drug treatments, marijuana addiction is best treated with evidence-based therapies to uncover the root cause of substance use and develop healthy coping mechanisms.
Start Addiction Treatment for Marijuana in New Hampshire Today
When weed interferes with someone’s life, it’s time to get help. Smoking, vaping and eating marijuana products as self-soothing are signs of marijuana addiction. Like other addictions, weed substance use is treatable.
If you or someone you love is ready to address weed use and addiction, we can help. At A Better State, we focus on treating the root cause of addiction with holistic, evidence-based treatments to help clients thrive. Our drug addiction treatment programs provide clients across New Hampshire with the support they need at a pace that works for them. Our range of outpatient therapy programs includes:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
- Art therapy
- Yoga therapy
- Trauma therapy
- Mindfulness meditation therapy
- 12-step recovery
- Anxiety treatment
- Depression treatment
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) treatment
A Better State’s intensive outpatient and partial hospitalizations are here to meet clients where they are in recovery and help them stay sober together, no matter their schedule. With daytime and evening programs, we have the tools to help you and your loved ones recover from weed addiction, mental health conditions, and other forms of substance use.
Learn More Marijuana Addiction and Treatment at A Better State
Have you asked the question, “Is marijuana addictive?” At A Better State, we can answer this and any other questions you may have about weed addiction and the signs of marijuana addiction. Our drug rehab in New Hampshire provides clients with the skills and support they need to stay sober for life. We’re ready to provide the support, understanding, and care required in recovery. Start on the path to lasting sobriety today. Contact us now at 781.412.1488 to learn more about our programs and services for weed addiction.
