marijuana

Is Marijuana Addictive?

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DrugRehab.org Is Marijuana Addictive_

A 2016 Gallup poll found that current marijuana use nearly doubled between 2013 and 2016. Based on these findings, roughly one in eight Americans presently use this drug. With statistics this high, it’s important to understand the reality surrounding marijuana use and abuse. Many Americans grow up hearing that marijuana, or weed, is not addictive. Not only is this perspective untrue, but it’s also harmful to a person’s health. Like other drugs, cannabis use can lead to adverse health effects, abuse, and in the most serious cases, addiction.

Can Marijuana Use Become Addictive?

DrugRehab.org Is Marijuana Addictive__marijuana use disorderThe National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) asserts “that 30 percent of those who use marijuana may have some degree of marijuana use disorder.” They continue, reporting that “people who begin using marijuana before the age of 18 are four to seven times more likely to develop a marijuana use disorder than adults.” For those who start in their teens, approximately one in six will develop an addiction, whereas one in nine adult-onset users will.

Keep in mind, even if you’ve been using marijuana daily for some time without becoming addicted, there’s still a possibility it could happen. In fact, according to research presented by the University of Washington’s Alcohol & Drug Abuse Institute, of those who:

  • Try the drug one or more times within their life, one in ten will become dependent.
  • Abuse the drug on a daily basis, half will become dependent.

The most easily witnessed proof that marijuana is addictive is that it can lead to cravings, tolerance, and withdrawal. These states are all primary hallmarks of addiction.

Why Is Marijuana Addictive?

Like any addiction, this is complicated and relies on numerous factors, many of which scientists are still learning. However, some researchers theorize that the rising potency of THC in marijuana is partly responsible. The primary compound in marijuana which is responsible for creating the high is THC.

Also, as consistent with other drugs of abuse, research has identified the possibility that marijuana can alter dopamine. Within rat subjects, NIDA writes that “early exposure…decreases the reactivity of brain dopamine reward centers later in adulthood.” Due to its role in regulating reward and pleasure, dopamine is heavily linked to addiction. Even more impactful is research published by JAMA Psychiatry in May of 2016. These findings actually identified certain genes which are linked to cannabis dependence.

Regardless of how or why marijuana is addictive, the important truth is that if you use marijuana, you are exposing yourself to this and other risks.

What Are The Signs Of A Marijuana Addiction?

Like all drugs of abuse, marijuana abuse and addiction changes the way a person thinks, acts, and behaves. If you’re concerned that your loved one is abusing or addicted to marijuana, they may exhibit certain signs, such as a(n):

  • Altered perception of time
  • Dry mouth “cotton mouth”
  • Enhanced sensory experiences
  • Increased appetite “the munchies”
  • Intense pleasure (euphoria)
  • Laughter
  • Red, dry eyes
  • State of relaxation

DrugRehab.org Is Marijuana Addictive__Signs Of A Marijuana Addiction

Marijuana can also cause:

  • Anxiety
  • Distrust
  • Fear
  • Panic
  • Paranoia

In severe cases, when used to excess, a user may experience acute psychosis, including delusions and hallucinations.

What Is The Criteria Of A Cannabis Use Disorder?

A cannabis use disorder (CUD) encompasses a spectrum of both abuse and dependence. As cited by Medscape, an individual with a CUD must meet at least two of the following 11 criteria during the period of one year:

A person(’s):

  • Uses marijuana in amounts or for a time greater than they planned on.
  • Cannot decrease their use even if they want or attempt to do so.
  • Expends large amounts of time finding, using, or recuperating from using the drug.
  • Is overcome with an intense need to use the drug (craving).
  • Ability to carry out important responsibilities at home, school, or work is impaired by the continued use of the drug.
  • Keeps abusing the drug even when it causes harm to them within relationships or social obligations.
  • Withdraws or completely stops engaging in pleasurable, social, or vocational events due to marijuana.
  • Uses the drug on a regular basis even when it exposes them to physical risk.
  • Doesn’t stop using the drug even when they know it’s causing or worsening a physical or mental health problem.
  • Doesn’t experience the same effect at the previous dose of the drug and/or needs more of the drug to create pleasurable feelings (tolerance).
  • Experiences withdrawal should they suddenly stop using the drug. Or, if this occurs, they use the drug to avoid these symptoms.
  • Withdrawal from marijuana can last up to 14 days. It may include cravings, irritability, physical malaise, restlessness, a suppressed appetite, and various changes to their mood and sleep.

Are There Other Risks Of Marijuana Abuse?

Despite its popularity and widespread use as a recreational drug, marijuana use is not without risks. Marijuana abuse and addiction carry some pretty serious risks which may surprise you, including:

Amotivational Syndrome

It’s theorized that marijuana is associated with amotivational syndrome, a chronic psychiatric disorder which closely resembles depression and causes:

  • Apathy
  • Blunted emotional responses
  • Decreased activity
  • Impaired memory
  • Incoherent state
  • Lack of motivation
  • Poor concentration
  • Withdrawn behavior

Cognitive Changes

Research is ongoing, however, marijuana use and abuse has been linked to memory impairment, decreased cognitive abilities, and even changes to the brain’s structural components.

As detailed by NIDA, regular exposure is particularly worrisome to adolescents. This abuse may impair “executive functions such as memory, learning, and impulse control compared to people who do not use.” Also:

“A large longitudinal study in New Zealand found that persistent marijuana use disorder with frequent use starting in adolescence was associated with a loss of an average of 6 or up to 8 IQ points measured in mid-adulthood. Significantly, in that study, those who used marijuana heavily as teenagers and quit using as adults did not recover the lost IQ points.”

Co-Occurring Disorders

DrugRehab.org Is Marijuana Addictive__Co-Occurring disordersTime reports that “90% of people with marijuana addictions also suffer from another psychiatric condition or addiction.” The JAMA study illuminates the seriousness of this comorbidity. These findings link certain cannabis dependence genes to genetic risk factors for major depression and schizophrenia.

Links To Other Forms of Drug Abuse

The theory that marijuana is a gateway drug isn’t without merit after all. Though most who use this drug will not develop other forms of drug abuse, research has found a connection. A second JAMA Psychiatry publication found that “cannabis use is associated with an increased risk for several substance use disorders.”

Are You Or A Loved One Addicted To Marijuana?

Even though marijuana isn’t as addictive or dangerous as other drugs, it can still disrupt and damage a person’s life in many serious ways. And like other substance use disorders, marijuana addiction can require support and treatment. We can help you with these things. DrugRehab.org can support you as you learn more about marijuana abuse, addiction, and treatment. Contact us now.

If you or a loved one is battling heroin or an opioid addiction, contact us now!

For More Information Related to “Is Marijuana Addictive?” Be Sure To Check Out These Additional Resources From DrugRehab.org:

 

Sources

Gallup — One in Eight U.S. Adults Say They Smoke Marijuana
JAMA Psychiatry — Cannabis Use and Risk of Psychiatric DisordersProspective Evidence From a US National Longitudinal Study
US National Library of Medicine — A Motivational Syndrome In Organic Solvent Abusers

Spice Addiction And Treatment

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DrugRehab.org Spice Addiction and Treatment

Spice, also called K2, is a synthetic (fake) cannabinoid, which means it has chemical properties similar to marijuana. The National Institute on Drug Abuse for Teens (NIDA) explains that sellers of the drug market it as safe and recreational. But spice is actually quite dangerous due to the risks posed by abuse of it.

Because of this, “Spice is most often labeled ‘Not for Human Consumption’ and disguised as incense” according to the NIDA. While spice may be marketed as similar to marijuana, the drug does not contain the same natural compounds found in marijuana.

DrugRehab.org Spice Addiction and Treatment Smoke Spice

With synthetic properties, spice can have adverse, unpredictable effects which can be quite severe, and may even lead to death. Spice addiction can escalate quickly, affect your health, and cause issues in many aspects of your life.

How Is Spice Abused?

You smoke spice in the same manner as marijuana; rolled in paper like a cigarette. Some people also put it into a tea and drink it. Spice is also sold in liquid form and used in e-cigarettes (vaporized).

What Are The Side Effects?

Spice is fairly new to the drug world, so research on it is limited.What we do know is that it reacts in the brain and body similarly to marijuana, but can be more extreme. Some reported side effects include:

  • Anxiety
  • Confusion
  • Paranoia
  • Hallucinations
  • Improved mood
  • Calm, relaxed feeling
  • Changes to perception

Some people who experienced severe effects and sought emergency care also had symptoms of increased heart rate, violent behavior, vomiting, and suicidal thoughts. These symptoms can signal overdose, or a buildup of the drug in the body. Overdose can occur from prolonged use, or from too much of a drug during one instance.

Spice affects the body by increasing blood pressure, and slowing the blood flow to the heart. In addition to the risk of overdose, possible long-term effects include kidney damage and seizures.

Other Risks of Spice Addiction

Many of us associate marijuana as a “safe drug.” Whether or not that is true, spice is not the same drug, and it’s important to know the risk potential of it. Spice can cause addiction, and addiction can result in a number of consequences. Just some include negative effects to your health, family, personal life, obligations, and finances.

Addiction can also lead to tolerance. When you have been taking a drug for a period of time, your body can become used to the effects of it—so much that it eventually stops feeling them. If your brain is already used to these effects, though, you’ll experience intense cravings to keep using the drug.

Spice can also cause withdrawal, which means that you’ll experience physical symptoms when not taking it, such as anxiety, feeling depressed, headaches, and irritability.

Who Is Affected?

Anyone can be affected by drug abuse, but spice has a great impact on teens. As of 2016, “spice is the second-most popular illegal drug used by high school seniors (marijuana is the first)” the NIDA states.

Since 2011, over 11,000 emergency room visits were attributed to synthetic marijuana. Of this number, more than 75 percent were aged 12-29, and the majority were males.

How Can You Overcome Spice Addiction?

As with any addiction to substances, the key to successful recovery is treatment. You can seek self-treatment, but the care you’ll find at a rehab center provides the support necessary to meet your goals.

Spice addiction can result in withdrawal, so the first step in treatment is detoxification. This process allows your body to flush the toxins built up from abuse. Once you complete this phase, you can begin healing.

DrugRehab.org Spice Addiction and Treatment 2011, Over 11,000

Treatment is available through a myriad of methods, but the best plans will be tailored to your needs. Addiction affects the mind, so a big part of healing is rebuilding the confidence and self-esteem necessary to maintain a substance-free life. This can be achieved through Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, which combines motivation and capabilities to help you achieve goals.

Cognitive behavioral therapy teaches you to build entirely new lifestyle habits, replacing the old ones which fostered substance abuse. Counseling can help you give voice to some of the troubling thoughts and emotions that occur during treatment.

These are just some of the evidence-based methods offered at our rehab centers. Whatever treatment path you take, it should be one that addresses not just your health needs, but your individual needs as well.

Reach Out For Treatment Today

Some drugs of abuse present dangerous risks, even with just one use, and spice is one of them. If your teen has been abusing spice, or you know someone who struggles, there is no better time to seek help. We are here to make the process of finding and securing treatment as easy as possible, so you can focus on what’s truly important: healing.

Contact us today at DrugRehab.org to learn more about spice addiction, treatment options, and the best rehab centers available.

For more information, call now!

For More Information Related to “Spice Addiction And Treatment” Be Sure To Check Out These Additional Resources From DrugRehab.org:

 

 

Sources

Drug Free World—Synthetic Marijuana Long-Term Effects
National Institute On Drug Abuse—DrugFacts: Synthetic Cannabinoids
National Institute On Drug Abuse For Teens—Spice
Substance Abuse And Mental Health Services Administration—Spice, Bath Salts, And Behavioral Health

Signs Of Marijuana Use

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Signs of Marijuana Use

Marijuana is a drug that is used largely within social spheres, quite often within younger populations, though its recreational use does extend to individuals using it on their own as well. The National Institute on Drug Abuse reports that it is used more than any other illicit drug within the United States, citing findings from the 2014 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), that report that use within the past month was at an astounding 22.2 million people.

Signs of Marijuana Use Marijuana Use

Within these staggering numbers is another daunting fact: many people may wrongly think that marijuana is a fairly innocuous drug. In fact, despite this age bracket’s steady use of the drug, NIDA reports young people are increasingly starting to believe that the drug is without risks. This is untrue. Despite the fact that some people may use marijuana for medicinal purposes, its illicit use imparts a variety of concerns within a user’s life.

The Components Of Marijuana Use

Some individuals feel that the lessening social stigma due in part to decriminalization efforts and the medicinal use is encouraging illicit use and this decreased perception of its risks.

When people use marijuana recreationally, or in pursuit of the “high” or euphoric effects, they are seeking the effects of the drug’s main chemical component, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). A partnership between the University of Mississippi and NIDA found that between 1993 and 2008, of 46, 211 samples, the percentage of THC had increased from 3.4 percent to 8.8 percent.

Signs of Marijuana Use THC increase

What people may not know is that our bodies contain naturally occurring endogenous cannabinoids, which are similar to those that are within marijuana, including THC. Due to this, the cannabinoids in marijuana have the ability to attach to the receptors in your brain that exist which are naturally occurring, resulting in what people call the “high.”

Marijuana impacts your brain in another way, by offsetting and changing the production of crucial neurotransmitters, specifically dopamine, a chemical that is key within your body’s reward and pleasure system.

Today, there exists a wide variety of ways that a person imbibes themselves with THC, beyond simply smoking marijuana. Some people may choose to use a vaporizer, in hopes of avoiding the chemical burden imparted by the smoke, and others, in increasing popularity over the past several years, may consume edibles (candy, baked goods, and even tea) or use various extracts, each delivery contains a measure of risk.

What Are The Signs And Symptoms Of Marijuana Use?

Signs of Marijuana Use Cognitive ImpairmentAny time a person uses a drug, there will be some change within their physiology, and in addition, we often see side effects overtly present in their physical, mental, and emotional states. Marijuana is no different. Despite the fact that some people may think this is a harmless drug, it is not. In order to fully understand this and offer a person the help they need, we must be aware of the side effects and symptoms of this drug use, as well as the risks that they impart.

Here we outline the behaviors that you can look for that point to marijuana abuse:

  • Euphoria
  • Increased state of relaxation
  • Increased appetite
  • Impaired sense of time
  • Impaired cognitive abilities, including trouble thinking, learning, or solving problems
  • Difficulties with memory
  • Impaired motor skills, body movements, or coordination
  • An altered mood
  • Changes in the senses: people may experience things more acutely—colors might be more vivid or sounds more dynamic
  • Some people may experience negative effects, including fear, paranoia, anxiety, or panic.

If you witness any of these in a loved one, please don’t convince yourself that it is a harmless activity, taking the steps to be proactive can protect your loved one’s body and mind, as the earliest intervention is the one that helps to prevent further health problems and lessen the chance of an addiction developing.

Marijuana Is Not Just Fun And Games

Signs of Marijuana Use Health RisksLike many drugs, marijuana has both short- and long-term effects, some of which we are just beginning to understand. Research is quickening on the subject, and the detriment of this drug is becoming more evident.

In addition to what we’ve noted above, in the short term marijuana can:

  • Cause nausea and vomiting, especially in the case of edibles if too much is consumed
  • Decrease motivation and focus, which can lead to long-term effects
  • Cause temporary changes to a person’s perception or mental state, including paranoia and anxiety
  • Cause decreased inhibitions, which may make a person more apt to experience unsafe sexual practices, which may lead to long-term effects like an unwanted pregnancy or an STD.

The long-term repercussions may startle some people. They include:

  • Suggestion that marijuana may precipitate other drug use
  • Financial troubles in supporting the habit and incurring any legal fees from criminal use
  • Impairs a person’s ability to safely operate a motorized vehicle which can result in damage or death
  • Troubles sleeping
  • Relationship troubles
  • Decreased general states of physical and mental health
  • Health decline with trouble breathing, lung irritation, illness, and infection
  • Increased risk of heart trouble or complication
  • Decreased sense of satisfaction with life, which may stem from the effects of decreased focus or ambition related to use
  • In teens, marijuana is linked to decreased educational success, specifically lower grades, a decreased chance of going to college, and a reduction in graduation rates, both in high school and college.
  • Can impair your performance on the job and overall employment status
  • Research indicates it can exacerbate the symptoms of schizophrenia
  • Use during pregnancy has been implicated in cognitive troubles for the child

The good news is that many of these side effects will resolve themselves when a person ceases using, however, some of the more severe may linger after use has ceased, which includes some measure of cognitive impairment.

Marijuana And Cognitive Impairment

A recent study, published in the journal Molecular Psychiatry this past March, delved into impairment and paid specific attention the the levels of dopamine that were produced with the striatum, a region of the brain that manages impulsivity, memory, and focus. It was found that “lower dopamine release in the associative striatum correlated with inattention and negative symptoms in CD, and with poorer working memory and probabilistic category learning performance in both CD and HC.” This serves to enforce the theory and growing body of research that suggests that using marijuana can cause cognitive deficits.

Short-term effects of marijuana use do manifest themselves as cognitive difficulties, however, many of these problems don’t fade when the high goes away. Cognitive difficulties, including those regarding memory, thinking, and learning may result from long-term use. Some research suggests that abuse and addiction can actually alter the workings of a person’s brain, this risk, we’re learning is especially prevalent during periods of adolescence, when a person’s brain is still developing.

Marijuana Is Addictive

When people think of marijuana, they may be quick to think about the drug’s euphoric effects that are glamorized on TV, film, and within day-to-day conversations. Despite the fact that this drug may bolster a person’s mood, there is an underlying truth that many people overlook—in fact, a truth that many people do not even realize. Marijuana can be addictive.

NIDA supports this, stating “Contrary to common belief, marijuana can be addictive. Research suggests that 30 percent of users may develop some degree of problem use, which can lead to dependence and in severe cases takes the form of addiction.” Due to this, drug use of this kind needs to be taken seriously, and may require treatment.

NIDA offers us more information on the subject, telling us that research suggests that of those who use marijuana, 9 percent will form a dependence, a number that rises to 17 percent when the use begins during a person’s teen years, because, as they also noted, those that use before they are 18, have a risk 4 to 7 times greater towards developing a marijuana use disorder than those that begin using as an adult.

Addiction happens because a person’s body adapts to the influx of chemicals that the marijuana contains, most notably the cannabinoids, and decreases its own production of those that are naturally occurring, hence, when a person suddenly ceases use, they may experience a sense of discomfort.

When a person who frequently uses stops using marijuana, they may actually experience symptoms of withdrawal, these included, as stated by NIDA “irritability, mood and sleep difficulties, decreased appetite, cravings, restlessness, and/or various forms of physical discomfort that peak within the first week after quitting and last up to 2 weeks.”

It is this discomfort that may often draw a person back to drug use, as they seek to avoid or alleviate these symptoms. This is one reason why therapy is so important, it can help you do avoid these drug-seeking behaviors by learning positive thoughts, skills, and behaviors to replace the damaging ones.

Treating Abuse And Addiction

A person may feel weak, ashamed, or silly for seeking help with their marijuana use. They shouldn’t. Reaching out for direction, support, and treatment for this and any drug is the wisest decision you can make. It helps to ensure your greatest chance at success, both within the realm of substance abuse and addiction, and beyond, in your life.

Currently there are no medicines that are used to treat marijuana addiction itself, however, behavioral treatments have been shown to be vastly successful in helping a person to overcome this, so that they may reclaim their life. These include cognitive behavioral therapy and contingency management, both of which help to develop and cement healthful behaviors. Motivational incentives may also prove useful, especially for teens, as they offer people a reward in exchange for their continued sobriety.

A good treatment program should address these co-occurring disorders and teach you how to positively control your thoughts and utilize your inner strength so that you can overcome any triggers and cravings and live a drug-free life. It will also teach you other ways to take care of yourself, instead of using drugs. In some cases, if a person has an underlying mental health disorder, their medical or addiction support team may recommend a medication that can address those concerns.

As we’ve noted before, withdrawal may accompany the cessation of use. Therapy can help you to alleviate some of these discomforts, and in some cases medications may be used to aid in the alleviation of symptoms.

Asking for help is a sign of strength and bravery, one that will reward you when you reap the benefits of treatment.

Don’t Let Your Life Go Up In Smoke

Contact us if you or a loved are considering treatment.Regardless of how you use it, marijuana isn’t just a good time. It is a drug that needs to be taken seriously, at DrugRehab.org our trained and supportive staff understands that. We can offer you information so that you may make the most informed decision about finding treatment, either for yourself or a loved one. Don’t hesitate, contact us today.

Sources
National Institute on Drug Abuse – DrugFacts: Is Marijuana Medicine?
Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America – Persistent cannabis users show neuropsychological decline from childhood to midlife
Live Science – Smoking Marijuana May Affect Weight Gain
National Institute on Drug Abuse – Drug Facts: Marijuana
National Institute on Drug Abuse – Marijuana Research Report Series

Understanding Substance Use Disorders

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Understanding Substance Use Disorders

Millions of people across the nation use and abuse various addictive substances every day. The allure of the high produced by these substances makes them hard for many people to turn down. However, it is important to know that occasional use doesn’t necessarily indicate a serious problem. Substance use disorders occur when a person uses drugs or alcohol too often, and they are often among the steps involved in developing an addiction.

Understanding the nature of substance use disorders, how they are developed, and the ways they transform into addictions is crucial in learning how to live a sober life. Please read carefully through the following information to gauge whether you or somebody you love has developed a substance abuse disorder and what you can do to help.

What Are Substance Use Disorders (SUD)?

The first step in understanding substance use disorders is knowing what they are and what they aren’t. Let’s start with the definition given by the Substance Abuse And Mental Health Services Administration, the leading authority on drug abuse in the country. They state that substance use disorders “…occur when the recurrent use of alcohol and/or drugs causes clinically and functionally significant impairment, such as health problems, disability, and failure to meet major responsibilities at work, school, or home… a diagnosis of substance use disorder is based on evidence of impaired control, social impairment, risky use, and pharmacological criteria.”

Understanding Substance Use Disorders What Are SUD

So do you suffer from a substance use disorder if you drink a glass of wine before bed? Not if your drinking doesn’t cause functional impairment. A glass of wine isn’t going to seriously impact your health in a major way. Do you suffer from a substance use disorder if you smoke marijuana once or twice every two months? While we don’t recommended such behavior, it doesn’t fall under the SUD heading.

However, let’s say that you don’t drink every day, but that you binge drink on Friday and Saturday, drinking six or more alcoholic beverages on each of those days. You’re stone sober Sunday through Thursday, but you like to “cut loose” on the weekends. Does your drinking behavior fall under the heading of a substance use disorder? Absolutely. Drinking more than five alcoholic beverages in a 24-hour period is defined as a “binge drinking” substance use disorder.

At this point, it is considered a disorder because it could impact your health and your social life. Imagine binge drinking on Friday, getting pulled over, and receiving a citation for a DUI or DWI. Your binge drinking has negatively impacted your life. Though illegal and dangerous, snorting one line of cocaine in a year doesn’t constitute a substance use disorder. However, if you use cocaine heavily every weekend, you are putting your life, social standing, and legal status in dangerous positions.

In this way, even smoking cigarettes can be lead to a substance use disorder. People who smoke multiple cigarettes on a daily basis are seriously impacting their health and potentially alienating themselves from friends who are non-smokers. While nowhere near as serious as drug or alcohol SUDs, it is worth knowing that tobacco consumption still falls under this heading.

Understanding Substance Use Disorders Commonly Abused Drugs

What Drugs Are Most Commonly Abused?

Now that you better understand substance use disorders, you need to learn more about commonly abused substances and their effects. The National Institute On Drug Abuse defined the following substances as the most commonly abused in the nation:

  • Alcohol – Though a legal and socially acceptable drug, alcohol is among the most dangerous and destructive. It not only quickly causes physical, psychological, and physiological changes in a person, but can lead to serious social and legal problems.
  • Marijuana – Use commonly begins in high school, with many claiming it is a relatively safe or benign substance. However, it drastically impairs your memory, ability to focus, coordination, and can even seriously decrease IQ.
  • K2 or Spice – A type of “synthetic marijuana.” Usage is still legal in many states even though it can cause increased heart rate, nausea, hallucinations, and even heart attacks.
  • Prescription Drugs – There are a variety of drugs on the market, such as opioids, stimulants, depressants, and cough syrups that are abused to get a cheap and legal high.
  • Cocaine – Though not as popular as it once was, cocaine remains among the most commonly abused drugs. It’s quick effect, short withdrawal period, and lack of significant physical addictiveness make it popular, but it is among the most dangerous as it can cause heart attacks almost instantly.
  • Heroin – Potent and dangerous, heroin often attracts people who are intrigued by the myths surrounding it. Unfortunately, it is one of the toughest drugs to beat and develops very quickly from substance abuse to addiction.

Many of these substances are quickly physically addictive, while others take a longer time to become addictive. In some cases, even one use may trigger a substance use disorder, as a person feels a great need to continue using. This is common with heroin, due to its potent effect. Though a person may not be addicted after one hit, they may feel addicted due to their strong impulse to use.

Are Substance Use Disorders And Addiction The Same Thing?

Addiction is a complex situation. Often, people mistake it for pure physical dependence, such as suffering from withdrawal symptoms if you quit using alcohol. While physical dependence is a major part of addiction (and one of its defining traits), physical dependence alone does not make addiction. Addiction also requires a compulsive and uncontrollable psychological need to use.

Addiction requires subtle chemical changes in the brain that compel a person to continue using drugs or alcohol, even if they understand that they are hurting themselves and want to quit. As a result, true addiction requires physical, psychological, and even physiological changes in a person, changes that occur through continual and sustained exposure to a substance.

People with substance use disorders often feel compelled to use their substance of choice, but are typically not at the level of addiction. Their behaviors may be very close to addictive behaviors, but they have yet to suffer the complex changes that lead to true addiction. This means they are hovering on the precipice of the cliff of addiction, one which would be very easy for them to tumble down if they don’t make important changes in their life.

Thankfully, it is possible to reverse course and prevent addiction by taking charge of your substance use disorder. This requires taking an honest look at your use and deciding if it is a problem. If you have suffered from physical health problems, decreased psychological balance, problems with friends and family, or even legal concerns as a result of your substance use, you likely have a disorder that must be taken care of as soon as possible.

Understanding Substance Use Disorders Substance Abuse Progression

How Do Substance Use Disorders Progress?

Substance use disorders and addictions develop along a complex path that differs between each person. Typically, they are a result of a negative experience in a person’s life, though happy and well-adjusted people can also develop substance use disorders if they let their use get out of control. Typically, substance use disorders progress towards addiction along this timeline:

  • Starting point – Substance use disorders are often inspired by something negative in a person’s life, such as depression, anxiety disorders, or the loss of a family member. They can also be affected by a family history of substance abuse or a genetic predisposition.
  • Developing abusive behaviors – Once an SUD starts, it often progresses through a series of behaviors. For example, a person may start out binge drinking on the weekends and progress to drinking daily. During this progression, they adjust to a lifestyle of substance use and make excuses for why it is okay.
  • Problems begin occurring – As a substance use disorder develops, a person is likely to go through various personal problems caused by the disorder. These problems often cause shame, depression, anxiety, and emotional turmoil that commonly lead to increased usage.
  • Loss of control – Just before a person develops an addiction, they start to lose control of their substance use. They are probably using excessive amounts every day and are rarely, if ever, sober. They are likely running into a log of legal problems and struggle to maintain positive personal relationships. They may seem like a completely different person.

This sad cycle is one that millions of people fall into every year, but it can be stopped. However, it is much easier to prevent an addiction from developing than it is to treat an addiction, which is why you need to work hard to prevent a substance use disorder from becoming an addiction.

How Can You Prevent A Substance Use Disorder From Becoming An Addiction?

Understanding Substance Use Disorders Prevent Substance UseIf you believe that you or a loved one have developed an SUD, you need to do the smart thing and cut back heavily on your substance use. This may be hard for you if you have developed a social need to use, such as taking smoke breaks with your co-workers or getting drinks after work with friends. However, it is important to nip this problem in the bud before it develops into the multi-headed hydra of addiction.

Unfortunately, you might feel some minor withdrawal symptoms when you cut back on your use. This can make it painful to cut back. It may compel you to continue using, putting you at risk for addiction. Try to find a “sober buddy” that is trying to quit using the same substance at the same time. You can support each other by finding activities that don’t include your former substance. Try to avoid going to places and spending time with people who may cause you to use.

Visiting a sobriety group, such as Alcoholics or Narcotics Anonymous might also be a good idea. Here, you will be around people who are struggling with addiction and are willing to support you in your fight. You may not have developed a true addiction, but spending time with people who have beaten one can give you the strength and focus you need to stay clean. You may also want to visit an outpatient rehab center to get advice and counseling on how to avoid using.

You basically need to do everything you can to either completely quit using (if you fear you have no control) or find a way to moderate your use. For many people this will take a lot of willpower. In fact, it might be outside of the abilities of those who are right on the fringe of developing an addiction. However, life is too short to spend it enthralled by a substance, making this fight one you can’t lose.

Let Us Help You In Your Fight Against Substance Abuse

Reach out for help overcoming addiction.At DrugRehab.org, we can help you in the fight against substance use disorders and addiction. Whether you are struggling with alcohol, heroin, cocaine, morphine, prescription drugs, or any other kind of substance, our experts can help you identify the root of your problem and find a way to eliminate it from your life. We will work hand-in-hand with you to prevent addiction or to help you move through the stages of addiction recovery.

You deserve a sober and happy life, so please don’t hesitate to contact us today. You’ll be glad you made that 20-minute commitment to talking with us and learning more about your substance use disorder and addiction recovery.

Sources
Substance Abuse And Mental Health Services Administration – Substance Use Disorders
National Institute On Drug Abuse – Most Commonly Abused Drugs
University Of Pennsylvania Health System – Progression Of Addiction
The National Alliance of Advocates for Buprenorphine Treatment – Physical Dependence and Addiction: An Important Distinction

What Is The Difference Between Hashish And Marijuana?

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What Is The Difference Between Hashish And Marijuana

Same Plant, Different Forms: How Hashish And Marijuana Differ

You have probably heard quite a fuss about marijuana. The drug has become increasingly well known—especially in the twenty-first century. Within the last decade, weed has become legalized in many states and countries around the world for both medicinal and recreational use. However, simply hearing about a drug does not erase valid questions about the details regarding a drug’s properties, what forms the drug comes in, and how the drug is used. In this article, we will explore these details as they apply to marijuana and hashish, while answering the following question: How are marijuana and hashish different?

The “Faces” Of Marijuana

Marijuana is identified by multiple nicknames (pot, dope, ganja, weed, and mary jane, just to name a few). In countless articles, weed is also referred to as hashish or hash. However, the identifying words for marijuana and those for hashish should not be used interchangeably, for the two are not one and the same.

Producing Weed VS Producing Hashish

Pot and hashish are made from the same plant: the female cannabis plant, cannabis sativa. But the process of how the two are created and the results of each are very different. In order to produce marijuana, the form of cannabis that is most common, the following steps are completed:

  1. Harvest female cannabis plant
  2. Dry flowering tops/buds (and sometimes the leaves) of plant
  3. Dried product is ready for medicinal or recreational use

In order to produce hashish, the steps are more involved:

  1. Harvest female cannabis plant
  2. Dry flowering tops/buds of plant
  3. Collect trichomes (fine, hair-like resin glands) at top of buds
  4. Filter plant with sieve to separate flower and resin
  5. Crush resin into powder by hand or with machine (this step releases oil and creates a tacky texture)
  6. Mold the now sticky resin into a ball or “brick”/slice
  7. Final brick is ready for use

How Pot And Hash Are Used

Marijuana and hashish are used in similar fashions. Both drugs can be smoked with a pipe, bong, or as a joint/blunt (like a cigarette). Hash and pot can also be consumed or ingested. For example, the dried product of marijuana is often added as an ingredient to food or even steeped in hot water to make tea.

THC Levels In Hashish And Marijuana

Although hash and marijuana are used similarly, the two are greatly distinguished by the levels of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) each product contains. Pot is the form of cannabis that most people are familiar with, but it is actually the least potent. THC, the active chemical of cannabis that affects the nervous system, is found in pot at a maximum level of 25 percent to 30 percent. Hash is often much stronger, ranging from 20 percent up to 60 percent. Many agree that hashish that is properly produced has a THC level that is three times as potent as pot.

Mind-Altering Effects Of THC

No matter the levels of THC in weed and hash, the chemical affects the brain in the same way. THC binds to a network of receptors in the brain and changes the state of the nervous system. Once marijuana or hashish are used, the brain responds within minutes. The notable short-term effects of these drugs are:

  • Deficiencies in memory
  • Difficulties in comprehension or learning
  • Problems with general thinking and problem solving
  • Increased heart rate
  • Anxiety
  • Decreased coordination
  • Paranoia
  • Panic attacks

Long-term effects of the use of these dangerous drugs include:

  • Memory loss
  • Permanent impairments in judgment
  • Altered perception of surroundings
  • Aggressive and/or rebellious behavior
  • Respiratory problems
  • Cravings, compulsive use, and addiction

The Reality For Those Who Enjoy Cannabis

The use of hashish and marijuana are becoming extremely common among adolescents and adults alike. It has been noted that approximately 14 percent of people within the United States have used a form of cannabis within the last month. Such increased social and cultural acceptance of the drug causes a more laid-back attitude associated with the serious effects—both short- and long-term—that THC induces. However, the magnitude of the effects should not be ignored.

Help Is Here

 

Information regarding the serious manner in which THC affects the brain is widespread. If you or someone you know is struggling with any of the difficulties listed above, or has even fallen into addictive behavior, there is help available. Immediate assistance is only a phone call away. Contact us at DrugRehab.org for any information regarding addiction or to get into a treatment facility that can set your life back on track.

Contact us at DrugRehab.org for any information regarding addiction or to get into a treatment facility that can set your life back on track.

For More Information, Be Sure To Check Out These Additional Resources From DrugRehab.org:

Synthetic Pot Use On The Rise

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Synthetic Pot Use on the Rise

There has been a push towards the legalization of marijuana, or pot, in many U.S. states which has brought on much controversy. Some enthusiastically support it while others are strongly opposed. It should not be surprising then, that synthetic pot use has also skyrocketed recently in 2015.

Poison control centers across America have seen a rise in calls regarding synthetic pot (marijuana) and the trend is disturbing. Synthetic pot calls have been up this year (around 3,572 calls so far as of June 2015) and that is up 229% from January to May of 2014. Even more shocking is that the CDC reported that calls about synthetic pot rose from 349 calls in January of 2015 to 1,501 calls in April 2015 (a 330% rise). What is even sadder is that so far in 2015, 15 reported deaths have been due to synthetic pot use.

Lab created pot is not a new concept, but it has risen drastically despite law enforcement trying to stop it.

What You See Is NOT What You Get

Sellers of synthetic pot like to evade law enforcement by selling synthetic pot incognito (as “incense”). Selling synthetic pot is illegal but that does not stop sellers from producing and selling it, or buyers from buying it. But, the concoction of what sellers put into the synthetic pot would alarm anyone. Synthetic pot is also called “spice” or “K2”. It is a concoction of herbs that are sprayed with psychoactive chemicals that mimic the main ingredients of pot (THC or tetrahydrocannabinol). In other words, it’s a nightmare waiting to happen. The products are then mislabeled as “safe” and “natural” by the sellers when in reality they are not. And law enforcement has seen a rise in deaths or severe complications due to this synthetic pot.

There have been many reported incidences of people going to the ER for using synthetic pot. Because the drug is literally a made up, lab concoction and is sprayed with unknown amounts of who knows what (there are 200 variations of synthetic ingredients and counting), it is extremely dangerous to consume, oftentimes binding itself 1,000 times stronger to cannabis receptors than “real” pot itself. It is not safer to use even under the guise of “home-grown”. The chemicals sprayed on the synthetic pot to make it look like real pot are 100 times more dangerous. One bag might consist of a different mixture of chemicals and could make you feel “relaxed”. While another batch from somewhere else could lead to severe hallucinations or even death. It’s a gamble and no matter what, you will always lose in some way. Nobody knows exactly what’s in it. And it’s too inconsistent.

Couch Lock And Other Side Effects

In addition to synthetic pot causing an altered mental state, agitation and possibly even psychosis, there is another term that teens have coined called “couch lock”. Couch Lock is where you are fixated in one spot, you can’t move, but you are still conscious. It’s a state where the individual is so “high” they can’t even get off the couch. And that sounds terrifying.

Users experience vomiting, dizziness, short breath, confusion and altered mental states, increased pulse and many other symptoms when they call poison control centers. Some other side effects can include:

  • Pale skin
  • Seizures
  • Inability to control body movements
  • Sweating
  • Psychosis
  • Dysphasia (deficiency of speech and sometimes lack of speech comprehension)
  • Delusions and/or hallucinations among others
  • Suicidal or homicidal thoughts or actions
  • Intense Paranoia

When the drug is ingested, it only takes about 3-5 minutes for the effects to be felt, but the high can last anywhere from 1 to 8 hours. It is not a drug to be taken lightly, it is highly addictive, and should be avoided at all costs. The best approach right now is to spread education and prevention of the drug.

How Synthetic Pot Came To Be

Synthetic pot use first began in the U.S. around 2008 (although it was produced by scientists around the 1980s to study its effects on the brain) and became available to teens and youth because it was sold at places such as convenient stores and online, until it was deemed illegal in 2012. Congress passed the Synthetic Drug Abuse Prevention Act of 2012, which banned five different types of cannabinoids found in the spice bags. Synthetic pot has been classified as a “Schedule I Controlled Substance” and put in the same category as “real” pot.

A Schedule I Controlled Substance meets three criteria:

  1. Having no medical reason for the drug whatsoever
  2. Cannot be prescribed by a doctor
  3. Contains addictive properties

Possession of and selling synthetic pot has severe consequences. On a first offense, you could be sentenced up to 5 to 40 years. A second offense could bring you 10 years to life.

A Drug With Many Names

In addition to being called “spice” or “K2”, synthetic pot (marijuana) is also sold under many different names. If you have heard a loved one refer to a substance as: “fake weed”, “Yucatan Fire”, “Skunk”, “Moon Rocks”, “Black Mamba” “Bliss” “Bombay Blue”, “Genie”, and “Zohai”, these are all just other names for the same poison. Whatever it might be called, the effects and danger are still the same. Do not be fooled into thinking that synthetic pot is somehow less potent than the “real stuff”. It is not and as mentioned before, is even more dangerous than the “real” drug. It is sold in small silvery bags and does look a lot like potpourri. It is marketed as being, “safe, natural, and legal”. That is all a lie. It is not safe. It is not natural. And it is not legal.

Seek Help Now Before It’s Too Late

If you or a loved one is thinking about experimenting with this drug, reading this blog just might have helped save your life. Never try the drug and never experiment with it. It’s just not worth it. Some people are addicted to it for years and experience all the negative side effects (and have altered their brains and personalities permanently) and others try it one time and are dead. You never know what could happen to you or a loved one.

If you or someone you know has an addiction to synthetic pot or other substances, this is a serious problem. Seek help immediately for you or your loved one because you never know when it might be too late. Reach out to us at Drugrehab.org today.

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