Understanding the Risks and Realities
Let’s be honest – marijuana has long been a topic of discussion. There are endless debates on its safety, addiction potential, and impact. And we get it! With shifting laws and increased recreational use, it’s important to understand both the benefits and risks associated with marijuana. Marijuana use can take on many forms and Centered Recovery is here to tackle all the hot cannabis topics. From what marijuana is, to its health dangers, newer methods like delta-8 and delta-9, and options for treating cannabis use disorder. And yes, cannabis use disorder is a real thing!
What is Marijuana?
Marijuana refers to the dried flowers, leaves, stems, and seeds of the cannabis plant, Cannabis sativa or Cannabis indica. These plants contain the psychoactive compound tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is responsible for marijuana’s euphoric, mind-altering effects. While cannabis has been used medicinally for centuries, recreational use often revolves around its ability to create a high that people use to relax, sleep, or escape from daily struggles. The problem is that marijuana is changing with increased potency and new, alternative ways to consume this substance, and the risks are increasing.
The Rise of Delta-8 and Delta-9: New Methods, New Risks
As we mentioned briefly, marijuana use is changing in our society with new ways to consume this substance. For example, derivatives like Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC have gained popularity fast as chemically modified versions of THC. It cannot be stated enough that Delta-8 and Delta-9 products are often in CBD shops and they are not FDA-approved. This means they may contain contaminants or be misrepresented in their potency. Despite being classified in markets as a “safer” or “less intense” alternative to regular marijuana, Delta-8 and Delta-9 still carry risks, especially with potential contaminants that are unknown!
Prevalence of Marijuana Use
Marijuana is the most popular illicit drug in the United States! According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), approximately 22.2 million people have used marijuana in the past month. That may surprise you, or it may not! Currently, marijuana use is highest among young adults while it is rising in older populations as well, particularly in states where it has been legalized for medicinal reasons.
The Impact of Legalization and Marijuana Use
Within the last several years, the way society views marijuana has shifted dramatically. As of now, several U.S. states have legalized marijuana for medicinal or recreational use. While these states and their advocates point to potential benefits—such as pain management, reduction of opioid use, and new economic opportunities—there are also still significant social concerns. For example, increased legalization has resulted in a rise in use among young adults and adolescents, a group that is already vulnerable to marijuana’s long-term effects on cognitive function and mental health.
More so, marijuana use can severely impact a person’s life, including work, education, and relationships. Maybe it has been challenging to meet job expectations or maintain productivity due to lowered focus and motivation. Maybe grades and academics are suffering, as marijuana affects memory retention and the ability to process information. Socially, marijuana use may lead to strained relationships and increased isolation. Over time, these effects can disrupt life balance and wellness, leading to a cycle of dependency and truly impacting quality of life.
Symptoms of Marijuana Use
As we mentioned before, long-term marijuana use can result in decreased motivation, social withdrawal, and difficulties maintaining personal and professional responsibilities. However, if you have used marijuana for a long time or use marijuana in high amounts, there can be a host of additional physical, cognitive, and emotional impacts, whether you realize it or not. Physically, people might have bloodshot eyes, dry mouth, and increased appetite (the “munchies”). Cognitive symptoms like impaired memory, difficulty concentrating, and slowed reaction time are common. Also, marijuana use affects emotional regulation. This can look or feel like heightened anxiety or in severe cases may induce paranoia.
Is Marijuana Actually Addictive?
We’ve all heard it before, right? Marijuana isn’t addictive, or you can’t overdose, or it won’t kill you. But, one of the most common myths surrounding marijuana is that it isn’t addictive. Research shows that about 9% of those who experiment with marijuana will become addicted to the substance. The risk increases for those who start using during adolescence or for individuals who use it daily. Cannabis Use Disorder (CUD) is a recognized, diagnosable condition, with symptoms including cravings, withdrawal, and an inability to reduce or control use despite negative consequences. So, in short – yes, marijuana can be addictive!
The Dangers of Marijuana
We’ve said it before and we will say it again – although it is extremely unlikely to cause death, marijuana use is not without its risks to your quality of life! Contrary to popular belief that it is a harmless substance, chronic marijuana use can have a variety of negative impacts on the mind and body. Some of these impacts look like:
- Cognitive Impairment: Marijuana can limit attention, memory, and learning, particularly in adolescents and young adults whose brains are not yet fully developed.
- Decreased Mental Health: Anxiety, depression, and in some cases, the development of psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia can increase, especially in those who are genetically predisposed to mental health conditions.
- Cannabis Addiction: Yes, marijuana can be addictive, leading to a condition known as Cannabis Use Disorder (CUD), as we mentioned earlier! If cannabis use disorder develops, it may be helpful to seek professional guidance or treatment.
- Physical Effects: Smoking marijuana has harmful effects on lung health, and frequent users may suffer from respiratory issues such as chronic coughing, choking, and bronchitis.
What is Greening Out?
“Greening out” is a slang term used to describe what happens when someone has consumed too much THC. And yes, you can consume too much, or overdose due to THC toxicity in the body. This phenomenon can be common in newer users or those who underestimate how potent marijuana can be, such as with gummies or edibles. While greening out is generally not life-threatening, it can be a scary experience for the individual and those around them.
Symptoms of Greening Out:
- Extreme nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness and sweating
- Pale skin
- Anxiety or paranoia
- Panic attacks
- Difficulty focusing or thinking clearly
- Inability to move or loss of coordination
- Increased heart rate
- Fainting or a sense of detachment from reality
What to Do About Greening Out
If you or someone you know is experiencing a green out, first things first, don’t panic. Staying calm is key to managing a relaxed state when your body is trying to regulate THC toxicity. Some other helpful tips are to lie down comfortably, drink water or hydration drinks, and breathe deeply. If symptoms do not alleviate or become more severe, seek medical assistance. If you are concerned about yourself or someone else having any additional substances that may be interacting with cannabis, it is best to stay safe and seek medical attention.
Following a green out, reflection may be a good idea. Are you worried that maybe your marijuana use might be too much? Are you struggling with the thought of possibly removing marijuana from your life? Or are you just not happy with your quality of life? It might be time to consider some support and treatment to help you navigate a life free from marijuana use.
Treatment for Cannabis Use Disorder (CUD)
For those struggling with Cannabis Use Disorder, professional outpatient treatment, and support may be necessary to overcome addiction and behavioral habits. At Centered Recovery Programs, we offer a mindfulness-based approach to help individuals break free from cannabis dependency and build a healthier lifestyle! Our program addresses the underlying causes of addiction, helping clients develop the awareness and coping skills they need for lasting recovery.
- Mindfulness-Based Interventions: Learning to observe thoughts and cravings without reacting.
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Recognize and change negative thought patterns that contribute to substance use.
- Group and Individual Counseling: Receive support from peers and professionals that is essential for long-term success.
- Holistic Support: Incorporate wellness strategies, such as yoga, sound baths, meditation, and nutritional counseling, to promote overall health.
Contact Centered Recovery Programs Today for Marijuana Treatment
Our mindfulness-based program helps clients understand the underlying causes of their addiction, develop healthy coping strategies, and build a life free from substance dependency. Whether it’s managing cravings, addressing mental health concerns, or creating long-term recovery plans, our individualized care ensures that each person receives the support they need to achieve lasting sobriety. Reach out today to learn more about our comprehensive cannabis use disorder treatment options.
While marijuana may be considered less harmful than some other substances, it is clearly not without risks. If you or someone you love is struggling with marijuana use, seeking professional treatment is a powerful first step. At Centered Recovery Programs, we offer compassionate, personalized care designed to help you regain control and build a brighter future! Call us now at 800-556-2966 to speak with an admissions counselor and get started today!
