With the legalization of marijuana in so many states, including here in California, there is more access than ever to marijuana and products with marijuana. Where it is legal, people are using it liberally, without worrying about the consequences. One question that should be asked is, “Can I become addicted to marijuana?”
Recreational Marijuana Use
For most people, marijuana is a recreational drug. People might use marijuana in many different forms to relax, help induce sleep, or get high. Many people use marijuana recreationally to increase their enjoyment of other activities. When it is used responsibly, there are very few side effects compared to illicit drugs.
However, while marijuana is legal in California and many other states, there are still laws that prevent driving while under the influence. Most employers do not allow their employees to come to work while using marijuana, and it is still illegal for those under the age of 21 to use marijuana. Responsible use includes following all of the laws that are in place regulating the use of marijuana.
Marijuana Potency
Another consideration in the use of marijuana is the potency of the Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in the plant. THC is the active drug found in marijuana. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, in the 1990s, the potency of THC in marijuana averaged only about 4%. Testing marijuana again in 2018, the average potency was 15%.
There is a fear that the potency may continue to increase since the FDA does not regulate marijuana. People may use the drug without realizing how high the THC levels are, resulting in a negative reaction warranting a visit to a hospital. Patients who ingest high levels of THC may suffer from extreme nausea and vomiting, agitation, paranoia, and psychosis, among other things, and need to seek medical care. More information is needed to know what you are ingesting and how high the THC levels are.
Marijuana Dependency
As people use marijuana more often, their bodies can develop a dependency upon marijuana. This means that the body creates a physiological desire for the drug, and a person might experience withdrawal symptoms when marijuana is not used. Dependency is not as serious as addiction, and most people will be able to stop using marijuana on their own, even if they experience withdrawal symptoms. Dependency is the most common result of heavy marijuana usage.
Dependency is created when frequent or large amounts of marijuana are used. The brain adapts to the drug by reducing the sensitivity to and production of the brain’s own endocannabinoid neurotransmitters. The brain adjusts to the large quantities of marijuana, and when the intake slows down, the brain and body need to readjust.
Withdrawal Symptoms after Marijuana Use
Withdrawal symptoms from marijuana use are not as intense as the withdrawal symptoms from some other drugs but can definitely be uncomfortable for a while. Symptoms can include:
- Irritability
- Mood changes
- Sleep disruption
- Restlessness
- Decreased appetite
- Cravings
- Other forms of physical discomfort
Most of these symptoms will occur within a week of the last usage of marijuana and will typically reach their peak during this time. Withdrawal symptoms can last up to two weeks after you stop using marijuana. There is still a lot of research needed on long-term side effects, especially for those who use marijuana under the age of 25, while the brain is still developing.
Marijuana Addiction
In short, yes, you can become addicted to marijuana. While it is a lot less common than dependency, it can happen. It becomes an addiction when using marijuana interferes with your life, including work, relationships, family, and more. When marijuana is more important than the people you love or your productivity or functioning, you are most likely addicted. Another sign of addiction is that you cannot stop using on your own.
Without effective blood tests or criteria for testing the potency of THC in both the marijuana plant and in your body, it can be difficult to tell the difference between dependency and addiction. However, even if science has a long way to go before it catches up with marijuana use, the bottom line is that if your marijuana use is interfering with your life, and you are struggling to quit using on your own, then you should seek treatment. Even if quitting marijuana may be difficult, it is not impossible. Don’t wait until you are caught driving under the influence or your relationships are damaged, or you lose your job. Find treatment for marijuana addiction today.
Can I become addicted to marijuana? The short answer is yes. Addiction is more severe than marijuana dependency, and the risks of getting sick from particularly potent marijuana are increasing along with THC levels. Access has never been higher, and yet the FDA does not regulate marijuana like alcohol, food, and more. These risks make it even more important to get help now. At Rancho Milagro Recovery, treating addiction is our passion. Many of our staff members are in addiction recovery themselves, so they understand where you are coming from. Call us at (951) 526-4582 to find out more about our substance treatment programs. Our beautiful, serene ranch setting provides you with solitude and the opportunity to commune with nature and even our rescue animals. Your addiction does not need to interfere with your life even one more day. Call us today to begin your path to recovery. You can break free from marijuana addiction and be free to live your life again.