Why Cannabis Addiction is a Serious Concern: Insights from Experts

Cannabis is a drug that’s been a topic of discussion in recent years.

Even though it’s been legalized in several states, getting addicted to it is possible. It can also be dangerous as well.

This guide will go in-depth about cannabis addiction and why it can be dangerous according to experts. If you are dealing with a serious addiction, an intensive outpatient program can be the best solution for you.

You may be confused by the fact that cannabis may not be a bad drug compared to others. Let’s shed a light on it and discuss why addiction to it can be dangerous.

Can You Really Get Addicted to Cannabis?

Short answer: Yes. Cannabis can be just as addicting as nicotine and alcohol. Granted, nicotine addiction may not be as serious to the point where rehab is needed. 

Cannabis is less addictive compared to other drugs such as cocaine or heroin. When you take a look at the numbers, less than 10 percent of people who use cannabis will have an addiction. By the sounds of it, this is a rare occurrence but such an addiction does exist.

This is known as Cannabis Use Disorder (CUD). This is often considered an issue in persons who are at a younger age (such as adolescents and teens). Like any other addiction, it may be hard to stop using cannabis once you start.

What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Cannabis Use Disorder?

While the symptoms vary from one person to another, CUD signs and symptoms can be boiled down to the following:

• Poor academic or work performance: You may perform poorly in terms of your academic or job performance. This may be due to the fact that you are not in an alert state. This may also be due to the fact that your cognitive function can be impaired. This will affect your ability to learn, work, and make decisions.

• Social withdrawal: You may feel like you don’t want to associate yourself with people you’re normally around like friends or family. Thus, you choose cannabis over them.

• Neglecting responsibilities: You may neglect your basic responsibilities at home, school, or work. You may even set aside the tasks and never complete them.

• Continues to use despite negative consequences: Despite dealing with negative consequences such as relationship issues, financial difficulties, and legal problems, they continue to use cannabis despite these experiences. This, in turn, will lead to repeating the same mistakes over and over again.

• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms: The withdrawal symptoms for CUD include but are not limited to the following: insomnia, loss of appetite, irritability, anxiety, and depression. If you are experiencing such symptoms after cannabis use (in the long-term), it may be time to get the help that you need.

What Makes Cannabis Addiction Dangerous?

Whether you know it or not, cannabis addiction is dangerous for many reasons. Let’s take a look at how it can be for someone who might be dealing with CUD right now:

• Impaired cognitive functions: When using cannabis on a chronic basis, it can lead to impaired cognitive function. You may have issues with attention, memory, and executive functions. You’ll have a hard time at work, school, or home.

• Respiratory problems: You may deal with respiratory problems later on in life. This includes but is not limited to bronchitis, emphysema, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (or COPD). The risk for lung cancer may exist. Think of it like the same problems you can face when you’ve smoked tobacco.

• Addiction to other drugs: You may be addicted to cannabis. However, you may be bored with it. To the point where you want to try a drug that will give you a different kind of high. These can include opioids, cocaine, meth, and others. Unlike cannabis addiction, these drugs will lead to even greater problems. Such addiction to them can have fatal consequences.

• You may face legal troubles: Not every state in the United States has fully decriminalized cannabis. In some states, it is still illegal to possess it. Even in states where there are certain legalities, you still might face certain criminal penalties related to cannabis. For one, you may be charged with driving under the influence or a similar crime if you are operating a motor vehicle while high on cannabis.

• It may exacerbate mental health issues: This can be quite confusing to some. Medicinal marijuana may be known for treating certain mental health disorders. However, this is so long as it is being used at therapeutic levels. Levels over that can exacerbate such issues. It can lead to worsening depression, anxiety, and even psychosis.

• You may risk trying synthetic cannabis: This kind of cannabis is more potent than regular cannabis. On top of that, it may also be mixed with other drugs. Depending on the drug, it can lead to serious or fatal consequences. You may not even be aware of the fact that the joint you might be smoking may contain synthetic cannabis or containing amounts of fentanyl.

• Relationship problems: You may isolate yourself from family or friends. This will cause you to miss out on important quality time. These are people who care about you. They want nothing more than your company. Don’t miss out on it because you care more about cannabis. Don’t lose out on making memories that will last a lifetime.

Final Thoughts

Cannabis addiction does exist. It can even lead to various problems. If you are dealing with it, it is important to get the help you need as soon as possible.

Just because it’s legal in most parts of the United States, doesn’t mean it’s OK. Getting addicted to it is easy. Getting over the addiction can be a challenge.

Be sure to get the help you need today. We’ll make sure that you get a treatment plan put together. You will beat the addiction and live a life that is fulfilling and free of drugs.