Today's Marijuana is More Addictive Than You May Think

Marijuana is taking the country by a frenzy. While we're far from the days of scare-tactic movies warning that marijuana will turn people into maniacs, weed is a serious issue for law enforcement and the addiction community. While the marijuana of the 1970s had a small THC concentration, the drug that gets people high, today's drugs are much more potent.

People on the drug are more likely to be impaired or have a substance use disorder.

Weed Seems to Be Everywhere

We're a new nation of marijuana. The drug has seemed to become a novelty over the past few years. Some 60% or more Americans favor decriminalizing it. Some people want it as available as beer or vodka. However, the truth of the matter is most marijuana consumption is illegal across the US. California and the West Coast states are where its sale and use are most prolific outside of Colorado. However, more states are jumping on board with recreational use due to the influx of tax dollars it can bring.

When we once saw billboards advertising beers and wines, there are now ads everywhere the liquor stores once used; states with legalized recreational marijuana now sell their own drugs and wares. Not only is marijuana use more prolific in America, but it's also now a drug that can be eaten, smoked, turned into tincture, turned into hash…and more. There are extracts on the market meant for smoking in a small pipe with up to 70% THC, enough to make a user seriously impaired. This could lead to blackouts or hallucinations, especially if a less-experienced user were to use it.

Because of these high THC concentrations, experts agree that today's marijuana products are likely more addictive than the street drug everyone thinks of when they talk of weed. However, with little regulation or research, it seems society's focus is legalization rather than examining the consequences.

Are You Addicted to Marijuana?

Yes, you can be addicted to marijuana.  If you have trouble quitting on your own even though you've had adverse consequences from your use, you may have a substance use disorder. Many people addicted to weed lose jobs, have relationship trouble, legal, or financial trouble due to their substance use.

Withdrawal effects are also a consequence of addiction to a drug. Many long-term users describe how they feel when they can't get high for a while. Headaches, lethargy, and sleep disturbances are the most common withdrawal effects, and they can last a few weeks. Some people who are heavy smokers of the drug may cough a lot when they quit smoking.

Getting Help for Substance Use Disorder

If you or somebody you love has a problem with alcohol or drugs, there's help available. We offer a compassionate, professional environment to help you heal from your substance use and start the road to recovery. Please give us a call at 619-363-4767 for more information on how we can help.