Georgia Marijuana Addiction Treatment
When people defend marijuana use, it is not uncommon to hear the argument that one cannot fatally overdose on it. While it is true that your risk of needing immediate medical attention after ingesting marijuana is considerably less than with drugs like heroin, fentanyl, or cocaine, it is far from harmless.
There is a myth that marijuana is not addictive, reinforcing the idea that it is a “safe” drug to use. The unfortunate reality is that marijuana is addictive and can have an enormous impact on your life and health. Marijuana use disorder (MUD) affects about 30% of all marijuana users.
MUD affects about 16.3 million people in the United States. If you or a loved one is struggling with a dependency on marijuana, know that you are not alone. When you are ready, our team at Green Acres Wellness in Georgia offers marijuana addiction treatment to help you take the first steps toward a life free from dependency.
To start your Georgia marijuana addiction treatment journey, give us a call at (229) 213-3363 or contact us online.
Forms of THC
Marijuana is a plant that contains tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), a psychoactive compound that produces mind-altering effects on the user’s mood, perception, and behavior. However, marijuana is not the only way you can consume THC.
It comes in various forms, such as:
- Smokeable “buds”
- Vaporizer cartridges
- Tinctures
- Disposable vaporizers
- Food (often referred to as “edibles”)
- Pills
The potency of THC in marijuana products varies, and the effects can be unpredictable, leading to negative consequences for your physical and mental health. Despite the widespread belief that marijuana is harmless, the reality is that marijuana addiction is a significant problem that requires treatment and support to overcome.
Understanding Marijuana Use Disorder
The symptoms of MUD can vary but commonly include:
- Increased tolerance to marijuana, which leads to the need for higher doses to achieve the desired effect
- Difficulty controlling or limiting marijuana use
- Continuing to use marijuana despite negative consequences, such as problems at work or school, relationship issues, or legal trouble
- Spending a significant amount of time and money obtaining, using, or recovering from marijuana use
- Using marijuana in dangerous or inappropriate situations, such as driving under the influence or smoking in public
- Giving up or reducing activities you previously enjoyed to make time for marijuana use
Risk factors for developing MUD vary and may include genetic, environmental, and social factors. These include:
- Early exposure to marijuana. Starting marijuana use at an early age (i.e., during adolescence) increases the likelihood of developing MUD.
- Family history and genetics. Research suggests there may be a genetic component to addiction to marijuana.
- Mental health conditions. People with mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder may be at higher risk for developing MUD.
- Social and environmental factors. Poor social support systems, exposure to stressful environments, and perceived stigma surrounding marijuana use can also increase the risk of developing MUD.
Classifying Marijuana Use Disorder by DSM-5
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) establishes the criteria for classifying marijuana use disorder. The DSM-5 features a list of criteria and determines your level of dependency based on how many of those criteria you meet.
The DSM-5 categorizes MUD into mild, moderate, and severe stages:
- Mild: Individuals with mild MUD meet 2-3 of the 11 criteria for MUD.
- Moderate: Individuals with moderate MUD meet 4-5 of the 11 criteria for MUD.
- Severe: Individuals with severe MUD meet 6 or more of the 11 criteria for MUD.
The 11 criteria for determining MUD are:
- Taking marijuana in more significant amounts or for longer periods of time than intended
- Wanting to cut down or quit but being unable to
- Spending a significant amount of time obtaining, using, or recovering from marijuana use
- Craving marijuana
- Being unable to fulfill obligations at work, school, or home due to marijuana use
- Continuing to use marijuana even when it causes problems in relationships
- Giving up important activities to use marijuana
- Using marijuana in situations that are physically dangerous
- Continuing to use marijuana despite being aware of the physical or psychological harm it causes
- Developing a tolerance to marijuana
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when quitting or reducing use
MUD can manifest differently in different people depending on various factors, including the frequency, duration, potency, and method of marijuana use. For example, heavy users of marijuana may develop respiratory problems or experience chronic bronchitis, while populations at risk for MUD, such as people with a history of mental health disorders, may experience worsening of their pre-existing conditions.
Short- and Long-Term Effects of Marijuana Use Disorder
Marijuana use disorder can have short- and long-term effects on an individual’s physical and mental health, social relationships, and overall functioning.
Short-term effects:
- Distorted perception and impaired coordination
- Difficulty concentrating and problem-solving
- Anxiety, panic attacks, and paranoia
- Bloodshot eyes
- Increased heart rate and blood pressure
- Impaired memory and learning
- Dry mouth and throat
Long-term effects:
- Respiratory problems, such as chronic bronchitis and lung infections
- Development of mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, and psychosis
- Decreased motivation and impaired cognitive function
- Increased risk of addiction and withdrawal symptoms
- Impaired immune system function and increased risk of infectious diseases
- Negative impact on social relationships and work or school performance
It is vital to seek professional help if you or someone you know is struggling with MUD. Treatment can help you manage withdrawal symptoms and reduce the severity of cravings while also addressing underlying mental health conditions, paving the way toward lasting recovery.
Signs of Marijuana Addiction
Seeking help from a healthcare professional or addiction specialist is crucial if experiencing these signs to address potential addiction effectively. Treatment options may include therapy, support groups, and medication-assisted treatment to support recovery from marijuana addiction. Green Acres Wellness in Georgia can help. Signs of marijuana addiction may include:
- Increased tolerance, requiring more marijuana for desired effects
- Withdrawal symptoms when not using the drug
- Unsuccessful attempts to quit or cut down use
- Spending significant time obtaining or using marijuana
- Neglecting responsibilities
- Continued use despite negative consequences like health issues or relationship problems
- Cravings for marijuana
- Social withdrawal
- Changes in mood or behavior
- Prioritizing marijuana use over other activities
Help Is Available at Green Acres Wellness
We can treat marijuana use disorder effectively through therapies, medication, and support services.
Treatment options for MUD are diverse and include:
- Holistic therapy is a treatment approach that considers the whole person, including your physical, emotional, and mental health. It includes alternative treatments, such as meditation, art therapy, and yoga, to improve overall well-being and provide healthy coping mechanisms.
- Inpatient care, also known as residential treatment, involves temporarily living at a treatment center to receive 24/7 care. This type of treatment is especially useful for those with severe MUD or co-occurring mental health disorders that require intensive care and support.
- Individual therapy allows you to work one-on-one with a therapist, while group therapy provides a supportive environment to share your experiences with others facing similar struggles. Both types of treatment aim to help you better understand the root of addictive behaviors and provide coping strategies to overcome them.
- Cognitive behavioral therapy is a goal-oriented therapy that aims to help you modify negative thoughts and behaviors associated with addiction. This type of therapy involves developing strategies to manage triggers, build healthy habits, and improve overall emotional regulation.
- Dialectical behavioral therapy is another evidence-based therapy that aims to help you manage your emotions and develop healthier coping mechanisms. DBT is especially useful for individuals struggling with co-occurring disorders such as anxiety or depression.
- Dual diagnosis treatment provides specialized care for individuals struggling with both a substance abuse disorder and a mental health condition. This approach involves identifying and treating both disorders independently while addressing their interplay.
Seeking professional help is essential to overcoming addiction and starting a new chapter of your life. If you or your loved one is ready to move to a life free from dependency on THC, consider our marijuana addiction treatment programs at Green Acres Wellness in Georgia.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the success rate of marijuana addiction treatment in Georgia?
Success rates for marijuana addiction treatment vary depending on the individual and the program. However, studies show that people who complete evidence-based treatment programs like the one offered at Green Acres Wellness have a significantly higher chance of achieving long-term recovery.
Is marijuana addiction treatment confidential?
Yes, your treatment at Green Acres Wellness is completely confidential. We adhere to strict HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) regulations to protect your privacy.
What are some resources available for families of people struggling with marijuana addiction?
We understand that marijuana addiction affects the entire family. At Green Acres Wellness, we offer family therapy and educational workshops to help families understand addiction and learn how to support their loved ones in recovery. Additionally, there are support groups specifically for families of people with addictions. We can provide you with resources to connect with these groups.
We are here to help. Call us at (229) 213-3363 or Reach Out for Help Online. or contact us online for marijuana addiction treatment in Georgia.
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