As marijuana becomes accessible, the hidden risks of cannabis use disorder (CUD) are rising faster than most realize. Recent data reveals an 88.6% spike in cannabis use disorder in states that have legalized marijuana.1 This disorder impacts a person’s mental, emotional, and physical health, often leaving lasting effects.
If you find yourself struggling with a cannabis addiction, we can help.
At Tree House Recovery, our rehab in Orange County, CA helps men and women break free from cannabis dependence and reclaim control of their lives. Read the most current information on cannabis abuse and its dangers, and the most effective addiction treatment for cannabis addiction.
Cannabis, commonly referred to as marijuana or weed, is a well-known plant that people consume, typically smoke, for its mood-altering effects. It is also recognized by the state of California to have medical uses. It consists of three primary species:
Cannabis Sativa
Sativa strain stimulates a “head high,” which increases alertness and mental clarity. Reported effects include heightened mood, feeling energized, and enhanced creativity.
Cannabis Indica
Indica strains are linked to a “body high” sensation, marked by sedation and relaxation. Users claim to experience reduced tension, calmness, and an overall sense of peace.
Cannabis Hybrids
Hybrid strains are a combination of sativa and indica. Individuals often select hybrids to manage symptoms such as anxiety or physical pain.
The primary active compounds responsible for its physical and psychoactive effects are THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol).
Cannabis is currently legal in the state of California. In 1996, California was the first state to legalize marijuana for medical purposes under Proposition 215 (AKA: Compassionate Use Act). In 2016, it was later legalized for recreational use under Proposition 64 (The California Adult Use of Marijuana Act), allowing those 21 or older to legally possess cannabis.
Those who are 18 years old can also possess marijuana, only with a doctor’s prescription and require a valid medical marijuana ID card from the county for purchase.
The ASAM Principles of Addiction Medicine defines cannabis use disorder (CUD) as a pattern of heavy marijuana use. Individuals with CUD cannot lessen or stop their use, even when the results are harmful.2
To be diagnosed with CUD, at least two of these symptoms must be occurring within a 12-month period:
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CUD is a formal medical diagnosis recognized by The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). While it is not a clinical diagnosis, the term associated with CUD is “weed addiction.”
Chronic marijuana abuse is also a common term associated with CUD. It suggests that there are physical and mental issues from use. However, the term does not meet the DSM-5 criteria for a substance use disorder.
Medical professionals determine the severity of CUD by examining the frequency of cannabis use, a persons tolerance, and the potency of cannabis.
CUD exists on a spectrum that includes the following:
5.7%
US population (19 million people) met the criteria for cannabis use disorder
42.4%
Young adults aged 19-30 used marijuana within the past 12 months
9.7%
Increase of cannabis usage for those making a yearly income of $75,000
29%
Young adults (20-24) reported using cannabis
4.9%
Women reported using cannabis during pregnancy
1,800%
Increase of cannabis-related emergency room visits among Californians aged 65 and older
Lawmakers group cannabis use in two legal categories: recreational (adult-use) and medicinal use.
California defines recreational marijuana as allowing anyone over the age of 21 to purchase cannabis products. Recreational marijuana is used for leisurely purposes such as:
Medical use of cannabis varies by state. In California, individuals with serious medical illnesses may legally use cannabis if a licensed physician determines it could provide benefits.4
The most common uses for medical marijuana were for:
The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey reported that 47% of people who used cannabis reported that marijuana helped alleviate symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and stress.5 While low doses of THC (7.5mg) may reduce anxiety, larger amounts of THC (12.5 mg or more) can worsen it.6
A 2023 study in Psychiatry Research found that regular marijuana users have a 45% higher risk of developing insomnia. Risk factors double for people who use cannabis regularly.
Schizophrenia is a severe brain disorder characterized by hallucinations, delusions, and distorted thinking.
Cannabis use does not directly cause schizophrenia. However, people with a genetic risk and sensitivity to THC may have a higher chance of developing the disorder.
Studies demonstrate that regular cannabis use increases the risk of schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. The National Institutes of Health reports that using marijuana increases the risk of physical and psychological problems. The risk increases especially for men aged 19 to 30.7
Research indicates that cannabis use impacts regions of the brain responsible for:
Studies have also shown that frequent marijuana use can have short and long-term health risks.
Long-term marijuana use can alter brain function and increase the risk of physical and mental health issues. Below are some of the long-term side effects of weed.
While a fatal cannabis overdose is rare, marijuana poisoning can occur. Cannabis poisoning develops when someone consumes high doses of THC in a short period.
Studies have shown that legalizing cannabis has influenced the rise in marijuana poisoning cases.
Reasons can involve:
People can also experience poisoning when they combine cannabis with other substances, like alcohol.
Over seven years, cannabis poisoning has hospitalized more than 581 individuals. The average age of these patients was 2.5 years old.8
Many marijuana edibles closely resemble popular children’s snacks, such as cookies and gummies. When young children eat these products by mistake, they can experience poisoning.
The California Department of Public Health reported a 140% rise in marijuana exposure calls involving children from 2018-2020 consuming edibles.9
Parents can potentially face legal consequences under the Penal Code Section 273a for child endangerment.
Although fatal marijuana overdoses are rare, cannabis poisoning does happen. It can occur when an individual consumes high-THC products within a small time frame.
Signs and symptoms of marijuana poisoning include:
CUD often leads to serious consequences affecting a person’s relationships, employment, education, and finances.
Over time, the severity of symptoms may increase. Although people consume cannabis for medicinal or recreational purposes, using it can extremely impact a person’s health. Below are common signs and symptoms of marijuana addiction.
Marijuana withdrawal isn’t life-threatening, but it can cause uncomfortable side effects.
Individuals diagnosed with CUD often feel stronger withdrawal symptoms. Weed withdrawal symptoms are common for those who use regular especially those with CUD.10
Cannabis withdrawal symptoms can involve:
Individuals can experience intense withdrawal symptoms when recovering from a cannabis addiction. Guidance during recovery can serve as beneficial for those who are struggling. With a strong support group and experienced addiction counselor, there is hope for a long-term recovery.
The process of recovering from this disorder can include:
Cannabis detox involves the body ridding itself of marijuana. Healthcare professionals recommend medical detox when an individual becomes physically dependent on a substance.
Medical detoxification can include 24-hour supervision, prescription intervention, and a designated treatment plan.
Multiple factors can affect a person’s cannabis detox process such as:
The highest level of care offered is inpatient or residential treatment. Programs can include individual therapy, group therapy, and educational workshops.
There are short-term and long-term inpatient treatment centers. The duration of stay will be dependent on the severity of the cannabis addiction. The standard duration of time an individual spends in inpatient treatment is 90 days.
A Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) is a more involved level of addiction treatment. PHPs provide support to individuals who are transitioning from a residential facility to daily living.
PHPs can consist of:
Participants of PHP programs usually attend sessions 5 to 7 days per week. Programs can be 6 to 8 hours per day, and participants can then return home or to a sober living center.
An Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) is an intervention offered to those who are recovering from substance abuse. California IOPs are traditionally a 12-week commitment and allow the participant to tend to daily responsibilities.
An aftercare program can help an individual maintain sobriety and avoid relapsing. It can incorporate ongoing therapy sessions and support groups. Depending on the program, individuals will learn how to cultivate a healthy routine and build healthy coping mechanisms. This level of care provides support, a healthy framework, and techniques to help with long-term recovery.
CUD is a serious mental condition that can affect every aspect of a person’s life. Evidence-based treatments can help individuals recover from chronic marijuana use.
Treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapy , motivational enhancement therapy, and holistic therapies can be effective when recovering from CUD.
CBT for cannabis use disorder is a therapeutic intervention whose goal is to recognize and change negative thought patterns.
This type of treatment can help those recovering from a marijuana addiction by:
The MET approach uses motivational interviewing techniques like affirmations, listening, and open-ended questions to reach recovery milestones. As individuals fall deeper into their substance abuse, they can lose a sense of self as well. Motivational enhancement therapy (MET) for CUD can help restore a positive self-perception which can aid with relapse prevention.
Substance abuse can impact dopamine receptors, specifically the brain’s reward center. Chronic cannabis use can reduce GABA production in the brain, which may increase the risk and severity of schizophrenia.
Exercise can help replenish brain chemistry by increasing GABA levels. GABA is a communicator in the brain responsible for relaxation, learning, and regulating sleep. Fitness therapy encourages cell growth in the brain and increases the chances of overall recovery.
Writing therapy aids in processing emotions, recognizing triggers, and comprehending the causes of addiction. The participant receives a prompt across three stages.
They work on elements such as:
Writing can benefit individuals by improving reasoning and decision-making skills. It is also a healthier coping mechanism for managing stress.
Studies have shown that the chemical compound THC can weaken pathways and activity in the brain’s prefrontal cortex. This part of the brain is responsible for self-control and decision-making.
ABIT(Action-Based Induction Therapy) has proven to increase brain activity and growth. Addiction counselors guide participants through drills, workshops, and exercises to strengthen the functions of the prefrontal cortex. ABIT also allows clients to build strong connections and explore new ways to have fun.
The Open Journal of Psychiatry found that patients who entered treatment had an 85% success rate in maintaining sobriety.
Before selecting a rehab center, consider the following.
The key to understanding a program’s quality is gaining insight into its graduation rate. Graduation rates reflect the caliber and effectiveness of an addiction recovery center.
Experience with addiction is just as crucial as scholarly credentials. Ask staff how they have sustained their sobriety and which lifestyle changes have supported their long-term recovery.
Not all online reviews are reliable. When researching addiction treatment centers, focus on reviews that provide specific and trustworthy details.
In California, rehab facilities must meet strict standards to ensure safety, effectiveness, and ethical care. The organization reviews and examines how a treatment center goes beyond basic licensing.
At Tree House Recovery, our Orange County rehab is here to help you break free from your cannabis dependence. Whether you’re seeking help for yourself or a loved one, we’re here to guide you with compassion, structure, and results-driven care.
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