What Is Marijuana? Definition, Usage, Effects, Addiction

New research analyzing data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, published in the journal Addiction, examines trends in cannabis and alcohol consumption in the United States over the past 40 years. In 2022, an estimated 17.7 million people reported using marijuana daily or nearly every day, a sharp uptick from fewer than 1 million in 1992. We’re a nonprofit organization, a resource of leading clinical expertise, and the first Tennessee addiction treatment center to achieve certification from the American Society of Addiction Medicine.

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While marijuana is often seen as harmless or even medicinal, especially with changing laws and cultural attitudes, the https://imperialapparels.com/statistics-on-drug-addiction-treatment-and-2/ truth is more complex. Not everyone will get a marijuana use disorder from using weed, but the possibility exists. The only way to truly prevent addiction is to avoid marijuana altogether. Marijuana is a mind-altering substance derived from the flower of the Cannabis sativa plant. It goes by many names, including weed, cannabis, bud, grass, herb, pot, ganja, and Mary Jane. It’s a lot like one your brain makes (anandamide) that sends messages between nerve cells throughout your body.

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For many, marijuana use starts as a way to cope with stress, anxiety, trauma, loneliness or feeling disconnected. But over time, it can actually deepen those feelings and the Halfway house symptoms of mental health disorders. If your or a loved one can relate to these feelings, you’re not alone—and there is help. However, when use starts interfering with daily life, it may be time to take a closer look. There’s no clear answer to this question as it varies by individual.

How to Seek Help for Marijuana Addiction

• Cannabis use disorder, or marijuana use disorder, results from chronic cannabis use.
• Using pot heavily, especially in your teen years, may leave more permanent effects.
• Marijuana withdrawal is generally not dangerous but can be uncomfortable.

Understanding the patient’s history helps identify potential risk factors and the severity of dependence. Physical effects are uncomfortable but usually subside within a few days to weeks as the body adjusts to not having THC. According to the Center For Disease Controls 2024 post on “Cannabis Facts and Stats”, approximately 52.5 million Americans, or about 19% of the population, reported using marijuana at least once in 2021. This figure is higher than the number of active tobacco smokers, which stands at around 36.5 million.

• In his current role at RehabAid.com, he researches, writes, and edits helpful and informative content concerning the best available, evidence-based treatment options for those in recovery from drug and alcohol addiction.
• According to research published by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), these side effects occur due to the psychoactive effects of THC and vary depending on dosage and individual tolerance levels.
• A small dose can have a strong effect on even some of the most seasoned marijuana users.
• Avenues Recovery is a reputable substance abuse rehab that specializes in helping individuals recover from all forms of addictions, including marijuana.
• A head high is more conducive to focus while body highs offer a pronounced sense of relaxation.

If you’re a treatment provider and have a question, please reach out and someone from our Customer Success team will be in touch with you shortly. Accurate, complete profiles best connect you with the right people for your services. Maintain your profile by updating your photos, video links, treatment services, and contact details to ensure optimal visibility. Recreational marijuana use remains illegal, and penalties for possession can include fines and imprisonment, depending on the amount. According to the North Carolina General Assembly (2021), the Compassionate Care Act allows for the limited use of CBD oil containing less than 0.9% THC for qualifying patients. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (2021) also reports that early use of marijuana, particularly during adolescence, accelerates the onset of psychotic disorders in those with a family history of mental illness.

Understanding Marijuana Addiction

Many addictive substances affect how the brain responds to dopamine. Medical experts believe it supports feelings of motivation and reward. is marijuana addictive The NIDA suggests that stopping cannabis use after frequent, heavy, or long-term use can cause withdrawal symptoms even when someone does not have CUD. There’s evidence that it was used in Central Asia and Western China to treat health issues such as arthritis, asthma, pain, and depression. Right now, medical marijuana is legal in 39 states, while recreational cannabis is legal in 24 states and Washington, D.C.