Cannabis addiction

Cannabis is a drug that has drawn considerable attention in recent years, both due to the legalisation of recreational marijuana and the rising rates of cannabis dependence. Although some people may dismiss it as harmless, cannabis can be highly addictive and disruptive to your health. When used regularly over a long period of time, cannabis has been shown to cause changes in brain chemistry that can lead to addiction and intense cravings.

Thankfully there are steps you can take to overcome drug addiction and start living a healthier life. Liberty House offers comprehensive cannabis addiction treatment for those struggling to quit.

What is cannabis addiction?

Cannabis addiction can be defined as the compulsive use of cannabis despite negative consequences, such as diminished functioning in various areas of life. It is a serious issue that affects many people across the UK, with a staggering 17.3% of fifteen to twenty-four-year-olds using the drug. As the most commonly used substance after alcohol, and due to its legalisation in many countries, the social acceptance of cannabis has increased in recent years. However, just like alcohol, it is possible to become addicted from regular use.

If you or a loved one is struggling with cannabis addiction, it is essential to seek professional help to avoid serious harm to your health and wellbeing. With the right treatment and support, it is possible to overcome your cannabis addiction and begin moving toward a healthier and happier future.

Why is cannabis addictive?

Cannabis can affect the brain in a number of ways. One of the main factors that contribute to its addictive potential is its high concentration of THC, otherwise known as tetrahydrocannabinol. This compound is responsible for releasing large amounts of the feel-good neurotransmitter, dopamine, which interacts with receptors in the brain that are associated with reward and pleasure, triggering feelings of euphoria and relaxation.

Over time, this can lead to changes in the brain’s natural dopamine levels, meaning that your brain will stop producing dopamine and will start to rely on cannabis to provide it instead. Eventually, your body will become dependent on cannabis just to feel ‘normal’ and marijuana addiction will soon take hold.

Am I addicted to cannabis?

Are you worried that you might be addicted to cannabis? If so, there are a number of simple questions that you can ask yourself in order to assess your level of dependency on cannabis.

• Do I experience strong urges or cravings for cannabis?
• Do I experience symptoms such as irritability, a lack of focus and concentration, or physical agitation when I haven’t used it in a while?
• Does my use of cannabis impair my social life or interfere with my relationships?
• Does my use of cannabis impact my performance at work?
• Do I feel like I need more and more cannabis in order to get the same high?

If these questions sound familiar, it may be time to seek help and address your issues related to cannabis addiction.

The side effects of cannabis

Cannabis is a drug that has both short and long-term side effects on the user. Some short-term side effects of cannabis include:

• Impaired motor function
• Impaired memory and concentration
• Mood changes
• Increased heart rate
• Decreased ability to problem solve
• Hallucinations

In addition to these immediate side effects, cannabis can also have long-term consequences on the user’s cognitive functioning. Over time, repeated use of cannabis may cause:

• Impairments in cognitive function, including attention span and ability to learn new information
• Weaker working memory
• Reduced processing speed

Alongside these physical side effects, cannabis also has a complex relationship with mental health. Research has shown a strong link between frequent use of cannabis and serious mental health issues, including:

• Anxiety
• Paranoia
• Psychosis
• Schizophrenia
• Depression
• Suicidal ideations.

These negative side effects make the consumption of cannabis risky. It is important to be aware of the potential harm that cannabis can cause and determine whether cannabis addiction treatment is the right decision for you.

Can cannabis addiction be treated?

The general consensus within the medical community is that inpatient rehab is the most effective course of treatment for a hallucinogens addiction like the one you may be experiencing. Attending cannabis rehab removes you from day-to-day stressors that may trigger a relapse and will give you the time you need to develop healthier habits.

One factor that is certain is the need for multidisciplinary care and a complete understanding of the condition and its underlying causes. Without exploring and addressing the reasons for your drug use in a professional setting, it is likely that you will fall back into old habits and patterns of behaviour.

Liberty House is equipped to deal with cannabis addiction itself, as well as support you with any co-occurring disorders. Our comprehensive approach uses a combination of treatment methods that can help you overcome any challenges and build a happier, healthier life free from coercive substances like cannabis.

Cannabis detox and withdrawal

Detox is the first step in recovery from cannabis addiction and is a process that all cannabis users must go through in order to successfully break their addiction. During this time, your body naturally expels harmful toxins and restores normal functioning.

During this period, you may experience a range of physical and psychological withdrawal symptoms, such as headaches, nausea, irritability, difficulty sleeping and cravings for cannabis.

It is important to seek support from addiction professionals during this time in order to support you through the effects of these symptoms and help you avoid relapse.

By getting plenty of rest, eating a healthy diet and regularly exercising, you can make your journey through cannabis detox less challenging and more successful overall.

What to expect from cannabis rehab

If you are considering rehab treatment to help you break ties from cannabis, you may be wondering what to expect. Liberty House offers a therapeutic and peaceful environment designed to support your recovery. You will have access to a variety of therapies, including Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), group therapy, one-to-one therapy, the 12-step programme, self-help and a range of workshops and lectures aimed at addressing the root cause of your cannabis addiction and how to manage triggers.

Our facility also provides other holistic treatments like yoga and meditation, gong baths, sound therapy and art therapy. Offering a wide range of treatments to our clients guarantees an effective and long-lasting recovery, giving you the tools you need to maintain a healthy, clean life.

Our former client, Matt, describes his experiences at rehab, stating:

“It was the atmosphere that helped – it was like a family unit in which everyone grows together.”

Perhaps one of the most important aspects of cannabis rehab is the support network around you. At Liberty House, you will be surrounded by others who understand you, including our staff who all have first-hand experience with addiction. This sense of community and connection can be instrumental in helping individuals make lasting changes in their lives. It provides critical emotional support both during cannabis rehab and after, as well as promoting accountability and encouragement.

Many of our clients find friends for life during cannabis rehab. This, coupled with our free aftercare, means you will have the support you need even after walking out of our doors.

Can cannabis rehab transform my life?

Cannabis addiction is a common problem in our society, with many individuals struggling to break free from their harmful dependence on this drug. Cannabis rehab, however, has the potential to transform your life. It can help you learn how to manage your cannabis addiction and cope with the underlying causes of your drug use, ultimately changing your life for the better.

Some of the benefits you can expect to see from our cannabis treatment include:

• Increased self-awareness
• Stronger support networks
• Improved mental health
• Greater overall wellbeing
• Better communication
• Ability to enjoy new hobbies and explore other interests

If you are looking for a way to leave your cannabis addiction behind and create a brighter future for yourself, then cannabis rehab may be exactly what you require. Liberty House can give you the freedom you need to embrace a much healthier approach to living.

Frequently asked questions