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Addiction Marijuana Recovery

Is there Such a Thing as Marijuana Withdrawal?

Although the idea of marijuana addiction and withdrawal has been widely debated in the past, more and more scientific evidence is beginning to support the fact that cannabis is indeed an addictive substance. Those that use it habitually may experience withdrawal symptoms when they stop using. By acknowledging that there is such a thing as marijuana withdrawal, we can better help users manage the withdrawal symptoms so they successfully adapt to life without marijuana.


Factors Influencing Marijuana Withdrawal
Not everyone will suffer symptoms of marijuana withdrawal when they quit using. Factors that impact your likelihood of withdrawal symptoms include:

When you started using pot – those that began using as teens are more likely to become addicted
Length of time you have been using – the longer the duration, the greater the potential for withdrawal symptoms
Frequency of use – Daily users are more likely to experience withdrawal symptoms than those who only use occasionally

Symptoms of Marijuana Withdrawal
Symptoms of marijuana withdrawal can be both physical and psychological. Physical withdrawal symptoms might include:

  • Sweatiness and night sweats
  • Body shakes and trembling
  • Fever and chills
  • Headaches, some severe
  • Changes in appetite
  • Abdominal pain and nausea

Psychological symptoms were equally troublesome and may include the following:

  • Irritability and anger
  • Depression, mood swings and anxiety
  • General restlessness
  • Changes in sleep habits
  • Vivid dreams while asleep

Seeking Treatment
In 2012, researchers from the National Cannabis Prevention and Information Centre at the University of New South Wales in Australia looked at 49 men and women from Sydney that were regular marijuana users. They asked test subjects, who used pot at least five times a week, to refrain from using the substance for two weeks. Ten of the subjects relapsed during that time. Researchers discovered those subjects were more likely to experience impairment in their daily lives due to marijuana withdrawal symptoms.

This study illustrates the importance of addressing withdrawal symptoms in those that want to stop using marijuana for good. When those physical and psychological side effects are not properly managed in a supportive, professional environment, relapse is that much more likely. It can take up to 90 days for withdrawal symptoms to stop completely, which means ongoing support and treatment is necessary for some marijuana users.

At Visions, we understand the complications associated with marijuana withdrawal and we work with patients on both an inpatient and outpatient basis to help manage those symptoms. While there is no medication to help treat marijuana withdrawal symptoms at this time, therapy, sleep aids and motivational incentives have all proven effective in treating this addiction. To learn more, contact Visions at 866-889-3665.

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Addiction Mental Health

What is Dual Diagnosis and How does It Affect My Treatment?

When an individual is struggling with a substance abuse problem, the addiction may not be the only issue. Mental illness may be muddying the waters of treatment and recovery. When both substance abuse and mental illness are present at the same time, known as a dual diagnosis, treatment of both problems will be required if recovery is to be successful.

Cause and Effect
While it is not unusual to see mental illness and substance abuse at the same time, determining which issue led to the other can be complex. In some cases, the mental illness was present first, and the person used drugs or alcohol to “self-medicate” or find temporary relief from symptoms. In other cases, regular substance abuse may lead to a mental illness like depression or worsen symptoms of a current illness, making it more visible.

Even when drugs or alcohol appear to make the symptoms of a mental illness better, the positive effects are just temporary. Without professional treatment of both the mental illness and the substance abuse, recovery from either is much more unlikely. If the drugs or alcohol bring on or exacerbate the symptoms of a mental illness, treatment may be that much more challenging.

Common Mental Illnesses
There are a number of mental illnesses that commonly accompany a substance abuse problem:

  • Depression
  • Bipolar disorder (manic depressive disorder)
  • Anxiety disorders
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder
  • Personality disorders

When both the substance abuse and the mental disorder are present at the same time, a dual diagnosis can and should be made. In these situations, it is important to address both problems simultaneously to ensure the best possible outcome for the patient.

Treating Both Problems
It is important to select a treatment facility experienced in treating a dual diagnosis. Detox is often the first treatment step, if the person has been drinking or using daily. Once detox is completed, getting off the substance is usually the next step. Someone who is still using or drinking will not be receptive to mental disorder treatments like talk therapy and counseling. In addition, some patients may require medication to treat their mental disorder, which should not be combined with other substances.

While a dual diagnosis may seem like a hopeless situation, there is hope for a successful treatment and recovery process. At Visions Adolescent Treatment Centers, we have a full staff of professionals that can address both mental illness and addiction. Through a variety of programs, we offer the support and treatment needed to bring the individual out of the dark place of illness and addiction and into a life of health and sobriety. To learn more, contact Visions at 866-889-3665.

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