With the rising tide of legal marijuana in the country, the question of whether it’s addictive or not has been raised again. While incidents of marijuana addiction are significantly lower than rates associated with other substances, it’s still possible to become addicted. Of those who use marijuana, 1 in 10 will become addicted, with that number rising to 1 in 6 in those who start using under the age of 18. If you’re concerned that you or someone you know may be addicted to marijuana, read on to learn more.
About Marijuana and Marijuana Addiction
Marijuana is the term for the dried flowers and leaves of the cannabis plant, and its active ingredient is Tetrahydrocannabinol, otherwise known as THC. While still the most common way of ingesting THC, there is an increasing number of options available. Addiction to marijuana is really an addiction to THC, which can be obtained through a variety of sources, all of which are derived from cannabis. These include:
- Edibles – This term commonly refers to gummies and brownies, but can include any food or drink to which THC has been added.
- Butane Hash Oil – Known by a variety of names, including shatter, this highly concentrated oil is actually a nearly solid substance that contains up to 80% THC.
- E-Juice – This ‘juice’ is similar to the substance used in vaping, and most vape devices can be altered to use it.
These are a number of places where THC can be found and used. Regardless of the method of ingestion, any addiction to marijuana is an addiction to THC.
How We Can Help With Marijuana Addiction
If you’ve decided that it’s time to overcome your dependence on THC, we’d like to be the first to congratulate you on this choice. Battling addiction is never easy, but the psychotherapy services offered at our clinic can be a powerful tool in beating your dependence and taking control of your life. Counseling can significantly increase your chances of success by helping you manage those elements that lead you to use. By identifying those factors that lead you to take part in your addiction, we can help you learn how to reduce their influence on your choices.
Questions To Ask Your Counselor About Marijuana Addiction
When you’re starting on your road to breaking the habit, it’s important to have all the information you need. It’s common for those working to beat addiction to have a lot of questions about the process. Some of the most frequent questions are answered below.
Who’s At Risk Of Becoming Addicted?
There are many factors that can influence the likelihood that someone will become addicted. These include having a history of addiction in your family. Those who have previously become addicted to any other drug are more likely to become addicted to another. Mental illness is often found side-by-side with those suffering from addiction, especially if they are using it to self-treat their symptoms. Social environments where other users can be found can also increase the likelihood that you will use yourself.
How Do I Know If I’m Addicted to THC?
The most common signs that you’re addicted to a substance have to do with when and how you choose to imbibe. If you have ever attempted to stop using marijuana and have found yourself unable to beat the craving, that’s a sure sign. If you’ve ever chosen not to do something important and instead chose to get high, you may be addicted, or if you continue using in circumstances where it is known to cause social or legal trouble such as work or school.
Our offices are here to help you battle your addiction and break the hold THC has over your life. Reach out to us, and we’ll schedule you an appointment with a mental health expert who can help you start taking effective steps to conquer your addiction to marijuana.
