Marijuana Addiction Treatment in Los Angeles

Please note that Recovery Zone LA does not offer specific addiction treatment programs dealing with addiction to marijuana and cannabis products. If you need help with addiction treatment or mental health support, please reach out to our team and we will work to assist you.

Due to the increasing acceptance and legal status of marijuana, many individuals find themselves trying the product for the first time. Many people may realize over time that they have developed a dependency on marijuana or abuse marijuana past the point of providing relief.

Many people in Los Angeles, California, struggle with marijuana abuse and dependency. But because there hasn’t been as much research on marijuana compared to other addictive substances, its characteristics and effects on the human body within addiction aren’t as thoroughly understood. Understanding the nature of marijuana, recognizing the signs of addiction, and exploring treatment options are crucial steps towards long term recovery.

What is Marijuana?

The word “marijuana” refers to harvested buds of the plants cannabis sativa and cannabis indica. These plants are also harvested for their leaves, stalks, and stems, which are sometimes used to create intoxicating products but may also be used for industrial purposes (such as the creation of hemp). The general term for products derived from these plants is “cannabis.”

Cannabis products have been used for centuries, across different civilizations. It has been used as part of holistic medicine, spiritual practices, and other niches. In modern times, it is commonly used for psychological relief or nutritional support for individuals with AIDS or undergoing chemotherapy. People sometimes preferred marijuana to other drugs for these purposes out of skepticism of mainstream medicine.

Regardless of form, products derived from the cannabis plant contain molecular compounds called cannabinoids. These directly interact with the endogenous cannabinoid system in the human body. This system is associated with many operations in the body, including stress relief, hunger, and immunity. It’s thought that this system may interact with different systems within the body as a “regulator” that strives to keep the body in a balanced state. It also plays a role in both learning and memory, which connects to how cannabis has evolved as a treatment for certain mental health conditions.

THC vs. CBD

Two of the most well-known cannabinoids in marijuana are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). THC is the primary psychoactive component responsible for the “high” associated with marijuana use.

CBD is non-psychoactive and can be used in products without creating the experience of feeling high. Many people use CBD products for calming effects or in holistic medicine, and CBD products are typically much more available to the available person than products that also contain THC.

Is it Even Possible to Get Addicted to Marijuana?

Yes, it is. Many people experience physical withdrawal symptoms when stopping marijuana use, which signals that the body has become dependent on the presence of marijuana to perform certain functions.

It is also possible to become psychologically addicted to marijuana, depending on the original intentions for marijuana use. Cannabis products are frequently used as a means of calming down or de-stressing, which means that the person using them may not know how to cope without the presence of cannabis.

A person may use cannabis to cope with the symptoms of mental illnesses like clinical depression or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). But marijuana may interact with and aggravate the symptoms of certain mental health disorders, such as general anxiety disorder. This can complicate both addiction and detoxifying from cannabis itself. Using cannabis (specifically products that include THC) as holistic mental health support should be done under the advice and observation of a medical professional.

Despite its reputation as a “gateway drug,” inspiring people to gradually seek more intensive highs, marijuana frequently does not serve this purpose to drug users. Individuals who go on to escalate drug use typically seek out substances that provide similar experiences to their initial gateway drug. Tobacco and alcohol are the most common gateway drugs, as users of the two are more likely to go on to experiment with more and different substances.

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Signs of Marijuana Addiction

Identifying marijuana addiction (sometimes referred to as cannabis use disorder) can be challenging, as many users may not recognize their behavior as problematic. The risk of dependency from marijuana is generally considered low to substances like alcohol or fentanyl. For most people, the first time using marijuana will not result in them needing marijuana addiction rehab.

However, it’s important to note that cannabis has not been studied as thoroughly as other addictive substances. There’s limited knowledge (comparatively) on how marijuana affects the body in a state of addiction. But it is true that marijuana is an addictive substance, even if addiction may look different than it does with other drugs.

Signs that someone may be addicted to marijuana include:

Inability to control or reduce their usage
Physical cravings for marijuana
Lower physical coordination
Risky behavior while high, such as driving
Spending increased amounts of time buying, using, or recovering from using marijuana
Neglecting responsibilities to smoke weed
Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not using, such as disturbed sleep
Developing a tolerance, i.e. needing higher amounts to achieve the same effect
Impaired memory
Continued use of marijuana despite negative consequences

Long-Term Effects of Marijuana Addiction

Long-term marijuana use may result in severe consequences, including:

Respiratory issues (depending on method)
Problems with memory
Weight loss or gain
Aggravation of mental health symptoms, such as increased anxiety
Potential impact on cardiac health

It is commonly recommended that young adults under 18 should not use marijuana, due to its ability to impact brain development. This applies whether it is used for medical purposes or recreational use.

Withdrawal from marijuana can cause physical symptoms, such as headaches, physical discomfort, persistent negative mood (“the miseries”), and nightmares. Individuals may require medical intervention at a detox facility during this process, depending on the strength of their addiction or psychological profile.

Options For Addiction Treatment in Los Angeles

If you’re considering whether to go into treatment for addiction, it’s important to know that there are many options available. “Going to rehab” is typically used to indicate an inpatient treatment center program, which does not describe every treatment center and may not speak to every person’s needs.

Recovery Zone LA offers addiction treatment in Los Angeles to support the recovery journey of the people in our community. While we do not explicitly offer treatment for marijuana addiction, we can provide support for those with a dual diagnosis or those seeking help with a different substance use disorder.

Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)

An Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) provides a structured treatment environment while allowing individuals to maintain their daily responsibilities. Participants may attend therapy at our center in Los Angeles several times a week, going home at the end of the day to keep up with their responsibilities. This program is ideal for those who require more support than traditional outpatient services can offer, but have obligations and outside obligations from which they don’t want to fully step away.

Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)

A Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) is a more intensive option than an IOP, that combines elements of inpatient care with outpatient flexibility. Participants spend several hours each day at the treatment facility, engaging in therapy and support groups while returning home in the evenings. This option is beneficial for individuals needing a higher level of care without the need for 24-hour supervision. PHPs are specifically designed to address more intense addictions, providing specialized treatment and support.

Outpatient Program

Outpatient programs offer flexibility for individuals seeking treatment while continuing to work or attend school. These programs typically involve weekly therapy sessions and support groups at an outpatient facility, allowing participants to address their addiction in a supportive environment without the need for residential treatment. Our center in Los Angeles can help you figure out what form of treatment is right for you.

Outpatient Detox

For those who may experience withdrawal symptoms when ceasing marijuana withdrawal (and withdrawal from other substances), outpatient detox can provide the necessary support. Detox under medical supervision can help ensure safety and proper management of symptoms. Medical professionals can offer guidance and assistance to help manage withdrawal symptoms effectively, as well as help the person prepare themselves for a substance abuse treatment program.

Dual Diagnosis Treatment

Many individuals struggling with marijuana addiction (and other forms of substance abuse) may also face underlying mental health issues. Dual diagnosis treatment addresses both addiction and mental health disorders simultaneously, providing a comprehensive approach to recovery. Individuals learn healthy coping mechanisms to manage stress and their underlying mental health conditions, allowing them to not feel compelled to use addictive substances. This integrated treatment model can lead to more successful relapse prevention over time.

Special Treatment Programs

In addition to traditional treatment options, Recovery Zone LA offers specialized programs designed to cater to specific populations. These include programs for older adults, LGBTQ+ individuals, and athletes. We know Los Angeles is a city that attracts people who are always on the go, so we also offer treatment programs for executives and college students at our treatment center.

Contact Recovery Zone LA for Help with Addiction and Mental Health

If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction or a dual diagnosis in Los Angeles, reaching out for help is a crucial first step. Recovery Zone LA offers a range of treatment options tailored to individual needs, providing a supportive environment for recovery. The experienced team understands the complexities of addiction and is dedicated to helping individuals reclaim their lives.

Don’t wait for the situation to worsen. Contact Recovery Zone LA today to learn more about available programs and take the first step towards a healthier, addiction-free life. Recovery is possible, and support is available.

References:

https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/the-endocannabinoid-system-essential-and-mysterious-202108112569

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4789136/

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7855189/

https://www.cdc.gov/cannabis/health-effects/index.html

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