Marijuana Addiction Treatment in Southern California

Marijuana addiction, also known as cannabis use disorder, is a condition where an individual cannot stop using the drug despite negative consequences on the personal, social, and occupational aspects of their life. The substance activates specific receptors in the brain, causing euphoric feelings or a “high.” Over time, users develop a tolerance and need higher doses to achieve the same effects. This can lead to a dependency on the substance.

When an addicted individual stops using marijuana, they may experience withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, insomnia, and mood changes. This pattern of addictive use and withdrawal shows marijuana addiction.

What Are The Signs and Symptoms of Marijuana Addiction?

• Increased Usage. One of the primary signs of addiction to marijuana is a substantial increase in usage. Individuals might start smoking marijuana more frequently or increase the amount they consume each time. They could be using it to manage stress or other mental health disorders. Often, they express distress if they can’t access marijuana for some reason, which leads to a negative impact on their mental and physical health.
• Withdrawal Symptoms. When an individual develops a dependence on marijuana and abruptly stops smoking it or reduces their consumption, they might experience withdrawal symptoms. Symptoms like irritability, appetite changes, mood swings, insomnia, anxiety, and depression, among others, can surface—clear indicators of a marijuana use disorder. This shows how the abuse of marijuana can lead to substance use disorder.
• Loss of Control. Another sign of this addiction is an inability to lessen or halt the habitual use. This can result in failed attempts to cut down or quit smoking marijuana, often leading to feelings of frustration, uncontrolled cravings, and potentially co-occurring disorders with alcohol abuse.
• Neglect of Responsibilities. The abuse of marijuana can manifest in the neglect of regular responsibilities. This might occur when an individual prioritizes marijuana usage over work, school, or personal relationships. This neglect can negatively affect their daily activities and performance.
• Tolerance Build-Up. As time passes, individuals with marijuana dependence may build up a tolerance and gradually need larger amounts to achieve the same effects. This often leads to increased consumption, has a negative effect on their mental health condition, and makes them susceptible to respiratory infections. This behavior fuels the addiction cycle and can result in harmful physical and mental effects.
• Persistent Desire. Despite significant problems associated with marijuana use—such as family concerns, legal issues, or worsening mental and physical health conditions—those with a marijuana use disorder often display a persistent desire to use. They continue smoking marijuana even when they recognize the negative effects it’s causing in their lives.
• Spending a Lot of Time Getting High. An individual who is addicted to marijuana may spend an excessive amount of time smoking marijuana, obtaining medical marijuana, and recovering from its effects. This can lead to social isolation as relationships and hobbies are neglected to accommodate the addiction, thus further accentuating the negative impact.