Marijuana
Everything you need to know about marijuana dependence and treatment options from Northlake.
Marijuana
Marijuana, also known as cannabis, contains the psychoactive compound THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol) which can be addictive. Marijuana is often smoked and also can be ingested. While there are few FDA approved medications that contain THC, many of the purported medicinal or therapeutic benefits of marijuana lack clinical evidence.
Marijuana Abuse
The main ingredient of Marijuana, THC, is known to impair brain function and other bodily functions. Symptoms of marijuana use include:
- Anxiety
- Appetite swings
- Bloodshot eyes
- Coughing
- Difficulty focusing
- Dry mouth
- Impaired Memory
- Lack of coordination
Long-term usage of marijuana is associated with more severe physical and mental health issues. Symptoms include:
- Brain damage
- Central Nervous System (CNS) damage
- Compromised immunity
- High blood pressure
- Lung infections
Marijuana Dependence
Marijuana is an addictive substance and users who stop can suffer withdrawal symptoms such as irritability and restlessness. The deep cravings can interrupt work and family life. Other signs of dependence and withdrawal include:
- Aggression
- Depression
- Headaches
- Insomnia
- Tremors
Diagnosis and Treatment of Marijuana Dependence
Interventions in marijuana dependence can reduce the negative consequences of marijuana use including physical, social, and financial costs.
Screening
Screening identifies the symptoms of marijuana abuse and marijuana dependence. Often, there are co-occurring mental illnesses identified during screening that are important to identify for effective treatment.
Marijuana Addiction Treatment
An individual first needs to get a comprehensive assessment that provides a full understanding of the severity of the marijuana dependence. Individuals with mild marijuana dependence can benefit from counseling sessions that are both group sessions and individual sessions that provide important insights and coping methods in a setting such as intensive outpatient and outpatient treatment. This type of treatment is also paired with group sessions and individual sessions along with Narcotics Anonymous (NA) meetings for a support system.
Northlake offers the following types of treatments to help people suffering from marijuana abuse including:
- Intensive Outpatient & Outpatient Treatment
- Support Groups