When people develop a dependence on marijuana, they can experience various physical and mental health effects when they suddenly stop using. If you or a loved one has developed a marijuana dependence, the time to seek treatment is now. Contact BlueCrest Recovery at 888.292.9652 to learn more about our marijuana rehab center in New Jersey and how we can help you.
Effects of Marijuana
Marijuana is a mind-altering substance with a wide range of effects throughout the brain and body. When people smoke or ingest marijuana, the active ingredient—tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)—quickly crosses the blood-brain barrier and produces several different effects. Common effects of marijuana include:
- A feeling of relaxation
- Trouble focusing
- Inability to form memories
- Slowed reaction time
- Heightened sensory perception
- Paranoia
Scientists and researchers believe THC causes these effects due to the close similarity in structure between THC and the neurotransmitter anandamide. Anandamide is found naturally throughout the brain and body, and the close similarity in structure allows THC to attach to neurons and produce drastic changes in brain functioning.
But as is the case with all addictive drugs, repeated use of marijuana can lead to marijuana dependency. The multiple regions of the brain THC latches onto become accustomed to frequently being activated and make adjustments to keep the brain in balance.
When marijuana use suddenly stops, these changed receptors can cause several unpleasant effects. Without proper treatment, these adverse effects of marijuana dependence can make it difficult for people to stop using independently.
About Marijuana Dependency
Dependence on marijuana refers to a physical reliance on the drug for people to feel “normal.” Marijuana dependency typically happens when people begin to use marijuana frequently and in higher doses.
The first aspect of marijuana dependence that most people will recognize is tolerance—a need to use more marijuana to achieve the desired effect.
But in time, people will also begin to feel withdrawal symptoms when they suddenly stop using marijuana. This is a direct result of marijuana dependency and often a sign that a person needs professional treatment to recover.
Physical Symptoms
The physical symptoms of marijuana withdrawal can begin 24 to 48 hours after a person has stopped using marijuana. These symptoms typically worsen before they improve, peaking in severity around day six. Common physical symptoms people experience when attempting to break free from a marijuana addiction include:
- Headache
- Tension
- Chills
- Sweating
- Stomach pain or cramps
While many people believe THC isn’t addictive or can’t cause dependence, several large-scale scientific studies have shown that these symptoms are not only real but common.
With the recent proliferation of high-THC products, such as dabs, cartridges, and high-dose edibles, more people than ever are experiencing physical withdrawals from their marijuana use.
Psychological Symptoms
The psychological symptoms of marijuana dependence are even more common than physical symptoms. When people stop using marijuana, they may experience symptoms such as:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Loss of appetite
- Irritability
- Sleep difficulties
- Vivid, intense dreams
Like the physical symptoms, these withdrawal signs can appear at least 24 hours and typically peak on day six. Withdrawals can last up to three weeks in heavy marijuana users, but there is a path to recovery.
Find Treatment for Marijuana Dependence at BlueCrest Recovery Today
If you or a loved one is living with a marijuana addiction, you can find compassionate and evidence-based treatment with the team at BlueCrest Recovery.
Our marijuana addiction rehab has all the tools and services needed to help you break free from your addiction, learn to live a happier and healthier life in sobriety, and overcome the symptoms of marijuana dependence. Contact our addiction treatment experts at 888.292.9652 to learn about your options and start the path to recovery today.
