Cannabis Addiction Is Omnipresent
Cannabis addiction is an omnipresent, worldwide phenomenon and it's not going away anytime soon. With 20% of our population using cannabis as a recreational tool and another 9% using on a regular basis, we have to acknowledge the issue at hand and move through the fear of stigma if we are ever to find solutions for those affected by addiction.
This post will explore the mental health issues inherent to cannabis dependence among others things. We'll detail some symptoms, provide resources for both treatment and prevention methods, and outline where you can find additional help in your area if you feel like you might need it.
# 1: What Is Cannabis? - http://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/...
The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) defines cannabis as follows: "Cannabis is made from the hemp plant, Cannabis sativa. It is believed that people have been using cannabis for thousands of years. In the 1800s, cannabis was commonly used in medicines and ointments.
In the mid-1900s, it was used to make rope and clothing. Today, there are more than 400 chemicals in cannabis."
# 2: What Does It Look Like? - http://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/...
Cannabis has been shaped into candies, pipes and vape pens in an attempt to get the plant into your system without having to smoke it. Some modern methods of consumption are an improvement over the vast majority of forms used throughout history.
However, because of the wide varieties of different types, as well as a lack of standards for similar approved products, there are also many healthy variations and methods posed as traditional cannabis use.
It is important to note that consumers must be aware that just because a product is being consumed in a way other than smoking it does not make it safe or less dangerous than using it by inhaling smoke.
# 3: How Does It Affect You? - http://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/...
The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) also says, "If you smoke marijuana you may experience dry mouth, frequent thirst, and an increased appetite. You may have bloodshot eyes and a slower reaction time. You can feel paranoid and have trouble thinking clearly while high."
We've all heard the cliche, 'I'm so high I don't even know my own name!' However, less often addressed are the long term health effects that cannabis consumption can lead to. NIDA breaks some of those down as follows: "Marijuana use affects the brain's ability to make memories. Regular marijuana users have a decreased ability to learn and remember things. Long-term marijuana use may cause problems with thinking and learning.
It can also affect how well you do your job or keep your home or vehicle safe."
In short, cannabis consumption is not safe and prolonged consumption can stunt cognitive abilities as well as cause a host of other health risks. If you think someone in your life might be using cannabis and it's affecting their health, please share this article so they know they are not alone and can seek the help they need.
# 4: What Are Some Symptoms an Addicted Person Might Experience? - http://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/...
"Cannabis can cause anxiety and panic, depression, impaired judgement and memory; lack of motivation; swelling in the hands and feet; problems with coordination, such as trouble walking or falling down; paranoia and suicidal tendencies."
# 5: What Is the Connection to Mental Health? - http://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/...
The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) states that drug research has shown: "Marijuana use is associated with cognitive deficits, especially memory problems. These problems are worse in people who started using marijuana before age 18.
There is also evidence that there is a direct relationship between the amount of time a person spends using marijuana and the concentration of THC (the active ingredient in marijuana) their body has in its system."
A number of studies have shown that marijuana does indeed act as a sedative and cause difficulties with attention, concentration and focus in some people. This is related to the development of impairments and behavioral changes that can be common among those who live with cannabis addiction.
# 6: Treatment Options - http://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/...
Treatment methods for cannabis addiction vary and many involve physical, as well as social, therapies. The National Institute on Drug Abuse offers a list of options you can check out to see what fits your needs the best.
Some of the more common treatments include: "Cognitive-behavioral therapy that teaches patients to identify their emotions and manage them in ways other than self-medicating with marijuana.
It also helps them develop skills to cope with stressful situations. Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) is an evidence-based treatment that helps patients accept their substance use and avoid behaviors that could be harmful. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) combines elements of ACT with traditional CBT for addiction.
This approach teaches patients to identify unhealthy behaviors by assessing thoughts, feelings, and physical sensations associated with drug use. Cognitive behavioral therapy for addiction typically involves three phases: a period of abstinence from drugs, followed by a period of drug use monitored by the therapist, and finally, a period of abstinence monitored by the patient.
Motivational interviewing is another promising approach for treating cannabis addiction. This counseling style encourages people to be honest about their substance use and promotes engagement in treatment.
It may be useful for teens who are reluctant to seek help on their own because they aren't sure whether or not they have a problem." All of these methods can work well in concert with one another so long as the patient's needs are being met and they understand how to apply new coping mechanisms.
If someone in your life is struggling with addiction to cannabis, please share this article with them so they can be aware of the additional resources available to them. Remember, there is hope and help for anyone who wants it!
The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) also offers additional resources regarding treatment options for cannabis users and those who love them. Check out the following: http://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/drugfacts/marijuana-abuse-and-dependence/treatment-approaches
https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/research-reports/marijuana-negative-effects
# 7: How to Get Help - http://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/...
The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) also offers additional resources regarding treatment options for cannabis users and those who love them. Check out the following: http://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/drugfacts/marijuana-abuse-and-dependence/treatment-approaches
https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/drugfacts/marijuana-negative-effects#sthash.S76nHFZU..clusion..cture..-altered. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) also offers additional resources regarding treatment options for cannabis users and those who love them. Check out the following: http://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/drugfacts/marijuana-abuse-and-dependence/treatment-approaches
https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/drugfacts/marijuana-negative-effects#sthash.S76nHFZU..clusion..cture..-altered. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) also offers additional resources regarding treatment options for cannabis users and those who love them. Check out the following: http://www.drugabuse.