Marijuana, also known as cannabis, is the most commonly used illegal drug in the United States. While many people believe that marijuana is a relatively harmless drug, the truth is that it can be addictive and have negative effects on a person’s health, relationships, and career. If you or someone you know is using marijuana and you are concerned that they may be developing an addiction, it is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms.
Increased Tolerance
One of the first signs of marijuana addiction is an increased tolerance to the drug. This means that a person needs more marijuana to achieve the same effect that they used to get with smaller amounts.
Withdrawal Symptoms
It is possible for a person to experience withdrawal symptoms if they make an effort to stop using marijuana or significantly reduce the amount they consume. Mood swings, irritability, anxiety, insomnia, and loss of appetite are some of the symptoms that can occur.
Loss of Control
People who are dependent on marijuana might discover that they are unable to exercise self-control over their consumption of the drug. It’s possible that they end up using it more frequently than they intended or in contexts where it’s not appropriate to do so.
Neglecting Responsibilities
A person who is addicted to marijuana might start to slack off on their obligations at work, school, or at home. They might be late for important appointments, ignore their responsibilities around the house, or blow off important deadlines.
Continued Use Despite Negative Consequences
There is a possibility that a person will carry on with their marijuana use despite the fact that they are already dealing with the unfavorable effects of their habit. This can include issues in the legal system, relationship difficulties, and even health concerns.
Social Isolation
People who are addicted to marijuana may begin to withdraw from their social circles, cutting themselves off from family and friends who do not partake in drug use. They may also find themselves devoting less time to activities that they used to take pleasure in.
Preoccupation with Marijuana
A person who is addicted to marijuana might spend a lot of time thinking about the drug, obtaining it, and using it. Additionally, they might spend a lot of time trying to hide their use of the drug. It’s also possible that they spend a lot of time with people who use marijuana themselves.
Using Marijuana to Cope
Some people may use marijuana as a way to cope with stress, anxiety, or other emotional issues. If a person is using marijuana as a way to cope with their problems, it may be a sign that they are developing an addiction.
It is imperative that you seek the assistance of a trained professional if you or someone you know is displaying any of these signs of addiction to marijuana. A person who is addicted to marijuana has access to a wide variety of treatment options, such as talk therapy, support groups, and treatment that is assisted by medication.
