Is Marijuana Addictive? The Truth Nobody Wants to Talk About

The prevalence of addiction among marijuana users is estimated to be 8.9%. This means that one out of every 11 marijuana users will become addicted to the drug. The rate is even higher among people under 18 years old. Some estimates suggest that one out of six of these teenagers will develop an addiction to marijuana before the age of 18.

THC

The effects of marijuana depend on what's called the "high." THC increases heart rate and gives users a euphoric feeling. It also activates the reward system in the brain by stimulating brain cells to release dopamine. THC also affects balance and coordination of movement. It also leads users to experience intense sensations and experience time passing more slowly.

The use of marijuana can change the structure of the brain, putting the user at risk for addiction. Research has shown that THC inserts a "feel-good" script into the brain, putting young people at higher risk for addiction. Despite this, Colorado's Department of Public Health and the Environment has reported that the number of youth who use marijuana has remained relatively flat.

Cannabinoids

The cannabinoids in marijuana are chemicals found in the marijuana plant that interact with receptors on cells in the body. They influence the release of various chemicals in the brain, which can have a variety of effects throughout the body. In some cases, they are used as therapeutic agents. Fortunately, the research on the medicinal properties of cannabinoids in marijuana is advancing.

For example, cannabinoids in marijuana may help people suffering from insomnia. The sedative effect of cannabinoids may help patients sleep better. It has also been shown that cannabinoids can help people suffering from certain medical conditions, such as glaucoma, a condition that often causes pain. And finally, cannabinoids are thought to reduce inflammation in the body.

Dopamine system

Researchers have found a connection between heavy cannabis use and depression, anxiety, and schizophrenia. However, the reasons for these associations remain unclear. In order to investigate this link, Volkow and his team studied the brains of cannabis addicts and controls. They found that cannabis users had lower dopamine levels than controls. These results suggest that marijuana addiction may be a result of a malfunction in the dopamine system.

Cannabis has complex effects both short and long-term, and scientists are still studying how it affects the dopamine system. Some studies suggest that chronic weed use reduces dopamine levels in the prefrontal cortex, a part of the brain involved in decision-making, planning, and memory.

Symptoms of addiction

Marijuana addiction can be a debilitating condition for a person, and the first step toward recovery is to recognize the signs. There are various treatments available, including outpatient programs, family therapy, and cognitive-behavioral therapy. Other treatment options include motivational enhancement therapy, which is designed to reduce resistance and promote positive change.

Most people who use marijuana daily or frequently experience withdrawal symptoms after stopping use. These symptoms begin as early as a week or two after the last 'high' and may last a week or more. After about ten days, withdrawal symptoms begin to lessen. However, they remain unpleasant for at least two to four weeks.

While many people have symptoms of addiction for other substances, marijuana has its own set of distinctive signs. Marijuana users tend to ignore the negative effects and problems associated with their habit, and therefore, must be monitored by loved ones and friends. Eventually, they will need larger doses and stronger strains of the drug to meet their desires.

Treatment options

If you suspect that someone in your life is suffering from a marijuana addiction, you may want to consider getting them help. Before doing so, you should research your options. If you feel that the person will not respond to your efforts, you may want to consider a professional intervention. Professional intervention is necessary to help a person overcome his or her addiction and change his or her behavior.

Treatment for marijuana addiction can involve several approaches, including inpatient and outpatient treatment. Inpatient treatment is intensive and highly structured, and has the highest success rates. It is best for individuals with severe cases of addiction or those who have tried other forms of treatment but have not been able to find success. Treatment can last from thirty to sixty or even 90 days, depending on the patient's situation.