There are many misperceptions about Marijuana. First of all, it is the world’s most abused drug. Second, since it’s legal in some states, people assume it must be safe. Third, there is now legal and illegal production of Marijuana. However, a person’s mind and body cannot differentiate between legal and illegal drugs. When someone takes any mind-altering substance, the body only knows how the drug affects it. Some propose that legal Marijuana is safer, but again the effects of the drug do not change because of the political status. At the end of the day, it is an addictive drug that is also a gateway drug. Many addicts who use hard drugs, like heroin, use Marijuana first. In 2020, over 4.0 million people in the United States met the diagnostic criteria for a Marijuana use disorder (SAMHSA)
What is Marijuana?
Cannabis is the scientific name for Marijuana, and it contains more than 400 chemicals. The chemical that causes someone to feel ‘high’ is tetrahydrocannabinol or THC. Marijuana is classified as a drug because of its mind-altering effects caused by THC. The Marijuana/Cannabis plant comprises dried leaves, stems, buds, and seeds. It is the leaves and buds that people smoke, and they are green, reddish-brown, or grayish-green. The cost for Marijuana can range from ten dollars up to hundreds of dollars depending on the amount and type.
Why is Marijuana Addictive?
According to studies, 9 percent of people who use marijuana become dependent on it, and if a person uses it during their youth or teen years, the number rises to 17 percent. Addiction to Marijuana happens because it is a mind-altering substance that causes tolerance. The psychoactive ingredient THC blocks the actions of natural neurotransmitters, resulting in a reduction in critical neurotransmitters that keep a person stable. A Marijuana user’s brain gets reprogrammed to depend on Marijuana just to feel normal. Marijuana is not unlike other addictive drugs in that the person will need to use it more and more to feel okay.
Does Marijuana Harm the Body?
The list of physical problems Marijuana causes is lengthy. Number one is a risk for lung cancer. The hydrocarbons in Marijuana smoke are 50 percent to 70 percent more carcinogenic than those in tobacco smoke, making it more likely to cause lung cancer. Marijuana smokers also hold in the smoke as long as possible, increasing the time the carcinogens are affecting the lungs. Additionally, male sperm counts are also known to be lowered by Marijuana; and the drug can harm an unborn baby if smoked during pregnancy. Other ailments include:
- Memory Problems
- Weekend Immune System
- Respiratory Diseases
- Lung Cancer
- Throat Cancer
- Digestive Problems
- Slowed Cognitive Ability
- Impaired Judgment
Why Illegal Marijuana is Dangerous?
One of the main issues surrounding illegal Marijuana is whether or not it has been laced with Fentanyl or other dangerous chemicals to increase potency. Also, illegal Marijuana can be toxic if the growers use unsafe chemicals or package it in unsafe environments. Illegal Marijuana has no quality control. It is dangerous to grow as it takes a large amount of space and many illicit Marijuana farmers use old warehouses with asbestos or mold. The landscape also suffers as Marijuana farming is linked to forest fires and other tragedies. If someone must use Marijuana, the wisest choice is to use legally grown pot.
How to Identify Marijuana Addiction?
The National Institute on Drug Abuse identifies what addiction to Marijuana looks like. They point out the rise in potency over the last years.
People who use marijuana frequently often report irritability, mood and sleep difficulties, decreased appetite, cravings, restlessness, and/or various forms of physical discomfort that peak within the first week after quitting and last up to 2 weeks. Marijuana potency has steadily increased over the past few decades. In the early 1990s, the average THC content in confiscated marijuana samples was less than 4%. In 2018, it was more than 15%. The increasing potency of Marijuana raises concerns that the consequences of Marijuana use today could be worse than in the past. (NIDA)
Getting Help For Marijuana Addiction is Here
Evoke Wellness at Miramar has been helping lifelong marijuana addicts let go of their need to use pot every day. Addiction to marijuana often leads to harder drugs and more profound addiction. We provide behavioral therapy and in-depth counseling, and group counseling to help marijuana addicts get and remain clean for good. Don’t let another day go by under the influence of marijuana. Life is better drug-free, and we can show you the way. Call now for immediate entry to our evidence-based treatment center in Florida.
