Many people argue that marijuana is safe because the withdrawals are not as intense as they are with other substances. There is also a misconception that marijuana is not addictive. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (2018), “marijuana use disorder becomes an addiction when the person cannot stop using the drug, even though it interferes with many aspects of his or her life.”
Can I become addicted?
Anyone of any age, race, ethnicity, social status, or gender can become addicted to marijuana. Often, other substances are unknowingly added to marijuana. According to the Center for Substance Abuse Research, University of Maryland, the dangers of smoking marijuana include the possibility that it has been laced with another, more dangerous substance such as cocaine, crack, PCP, or even embalming fluid. Smoking marijuana laced with embalming fluid or formaldehyde has effects similar to marijuana laced with PCP, which is a drug that causes hallucinations, euphoria, and panic or rage.
Fentanyl is a very powerful and deadly drug, which is often added to marijuana to increase the intensity of euphoria. Deborah Hopkins, the operations director for Vermont Substance Abuse Services stated dealers do this with the hope and expectation that people will think it is just a “strong strain” and come back to get more. It creates a dependency on the fentanyl. The smallest amount of fentanyl is more potent than heroin and morphine.
Marijuana is stronger today than it was 10 years ago, increasing the severity of withdrawal symptoms. A person who uses marijuana on a regular basis will experience withdrawal symptoms when he or she tries to stop.
Withdrawal symptoms
- Depression
- Lack of appetite
- Anxiety
- Disruptive sleep patterns
- Severe headaches
- Irritability
- Less productivity
- Relationship problems
- Mental and physical health issues
Getting help
Marijuana is considered a gateway drug. That means it has the potential to influence people to experiment with other drugs, which also increases the risk of addiction. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, you are not alone. Addiction is complicated but is treatable. Take the first step toward a healthy, fulfilling, life in sobriety and get help today. There is hope in recovery. Do not let the stigma prevent you from getting the help you need. Asking for help is the first step to a healthy, meaningful, and fulfilling life.
Offering a full range of recovery and mental health services, Valiant Living offers “Expanded Recovery” to enrich our clients’ lives in mind, body, and spirit. Through evidence-based therapy options and the endless adventure of Colorado, Valiant fosters connection, encouraging clients to get connected to themselves, their peers, their families, and their higher power. With the power of recovery, clients are restored to full health and experience life-changing healing. Call us today for more information: 303-536-5463
