Marijuana Addiction: Sign, Causes, Treatment and Prevention

Marijuana addiction refers to the compulsive need to use marijuana despite experiencing  harmful consequences. Marijuana addiction can lead to anxiety and depression, amongst other undesirable side effects. While many view marijuana as a less harmful substance, chronic use can lead to significant physical, mental, and social problems. 

As an addictive substance, marijuana interacts with brain receptors and the endocannabinoid system, producing effects that range from mild euphoria to impaired memory and coordination. Over time, repeated use can lead to tolerance, dependence, and the development of cannabis use disorder. Individuals with marijuana addiction often experience symptoms like anxiety, depression, and withdrawal symptoms when attempting to quit, which can make the addiction cycle difficult to break.

The symptoms of marijuana addiction include cravings, increased tolerance, withdrawal symptoms such as irritability and sleep difficulties, and a reduced ability to function in daily activities. According to a report by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), 30% of marijuana users develop some form of cannabis use disorder.

The causes of marijuana addiction involve genetic predisposition, early onset of use, and psychological factors like stress or mental health disorders. According to Agrawal, A., & Lynskey, M. T. ‘s 2009 study ‘The Genetics of Cannabis Use and Dependence’, individuals with a family history of substance use disorders are 2-3 times more likely to develop a marijuana addiction.

Some effects of marijuana addiction can include impaired memory, concentration, and coordination, as well as increased risk of mental health issues like anxiety and depression. According to Meier, M. H., et al. ‘s 2012 study, ‘Persistent Cannabis Users Show Neuropsychological Decline from Childhood to Midlife’, chronic marijuana use is associated with 8-point drops in IQ among adolescent users who continue into adulthood. 

Effective treatment options for marijuana addiction include behavioral therapies, counseling, and support groups. According to Budney, A. J., et al. ‘s 2007 study, ‘Behavioral Treatments for Marijuana Dependence’, 50-60% of individuals who engage in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) show significant improvement in managing their addiction.

Marijuana addiction prevention strategies emphasize education, early intervention, and promoting healthy coping mechanisms. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), school-based prevention programs that teach students about the risks of marijuana use can reduce the likelihood of initiation by 20-30%. 

What Is Marijuana Addiction? 

Marijuana addiction is a type of substance use disorder characterized by the compulsive and harmful use of marijuana despite negative consequences. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), marijuana addiction occurs when the brain adapts to large amounts of the drug, reducing its sensitivity and making it necessary to use more to achieve the same effects. This is often accompanied by withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, mood swings, and sleep difficulties when use is reduced or stopped.

In New Jersey, approximately 6.7% of individuals aged 12 or older reported using marijuana in the past month, with about 2.6% developing a marijuana use disorder. Nationally, about 30% of those who use marijuana may have some degree of marijuana use disorder (NIDA, 2021).

What Are The Signs And Symptoms of Marijuana Addiction? 

The signs and symptoms of marijuana addiction include an inability to control use, cravings, increased tolerance, withdrawal symptoms, neglect of responsibilities, continued use despite problems, and a loss of interest in activities. The key signs and symptoms of marijuana addiction are provided below:

• Inability to control use: Mariujuana addiction is often marked by repeated unsuccessful attempts to cut down or regulate cannabis consumption. This consumption is driven by strong cravings or urges to use marijuana, reflecting a person’s psychological dependence on the drug. According to Freeman, T. P., et al’s 2018 study, ‘Cannabis Use and Cravings: Predictors of Relapse in Cannabis Use Disorder’, drug cravings can significantly impact an individual’s ability to abstain from use.
• Increased tolerance: Over time, larger amounts of marijuana are needed to achieve the same effects. This adaptation is a clear sign of physiological dependence, as noted in research by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). Withdrawal symptoms, including irritability, anxiety, sleep disturbances, and appetite changes occur when the drug is not used. 
• Neglect of responsibilities: Failing to fulfill obligations at work, school, or home due to marijuana use is a common hallmark of addiction. This neglect can severely impact an individual’s daily life, functioning, and relationships. According to Budney, A. J., et al. ‘s 2007 study, ‘Marijuana Use and Neglect of Responsibilities: The Impact on Daily Functioning’, 40-60% of individuals with cannabis use disorder report significant impairments in professional or academic performance due to frequent marijuana use.
• Loss of interest in activities: A loss of interest in previous engaging activities indicates a significant shift in focus from their routine patterns towards drug use. According to Silins, E., et al. ‘s 2014 study, ‘Impact of Cannabis Use on Life Satisfaction and Engagement: A Longitudinal Study’, individuals with cannabis use disorder often experience a 20-30% decrease in overall life satisfaction and engagement in recreational, social, and professional activities. 

What Are The Causes of Marijuana Addiction? 

The causes of marijuana addiction are primarily genetic predisposition, early exposure to marijuana, mental health disorders, environmental factors, and chronic use.

• Genetic Predisposition: Research indicates that genetic factors play a significant role in the development of marijuana addiction. According to Agrawal, A., & Lynskey, M. T. ‘s 2009 study, ‘The Genetics of Cannabis Use and Dependence’, individuals with a family history of substance use disorders are more likely to develop marijuana dependence.
• Early Exposure to Marijuana: Early onset of marijuana use, particularly during adolescence, increases the risk of addiction. The National Institute on Drug Abuse reports that the developing brain is more susceptible to the effects of marijuana, making early exposure a critical risk factor.
• Mental Health Disorders: Co-occurring mental health conditions, such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), are strongly associated with marijuana addiction. According to Buckner, J. D., et al. ‘s 2011 study, ‘The Impact of Co-occurring Mental Health Disorders on Cannabis Use Disorder’, individuals with co-occurring mental health disorders are 2-3 times more likely to develop cannabis use disorder. The use of marijuana to alleviate symptoms of mental health conditions can lead to increased tolerance and dependence, further complicating the underlying mental health issues.
• Environmental Factors: Social environment, peer pressure, and accessibility to marijuana can influence the likelihood of developing an addiction. According to Galea, S., et al. ‘s 2004 study, ‘The Influence of Environmental Factors on Cannabis Use’, living in an environment where drug use is prevalent can increase the risk of addiction.
• Chronic Use: Regular and prolonged use of marijuana can lead to tolerance and dependence. According to Vandrey, R., et al. ‘s 2015 study, ‘The Impact of Chronic Cannabis Use on Brain Function and Addiction’, individuals who use marijuana daily are at a 25-50% increased risk of developing cannabis use disorder. 

What Are The Effects of Marijuana Addiction? 

The effects of marijuana addiction are cognitive impairment, mental health disorders, respiratory issues, impaired social functioning, and physical health problems.

• Cognitive Impairment: Marijuana addiction can lead to memory loss, decreased attention span, and impaired decision-making abilities. A study published in JAMA Psychiatry found that long-term marijuana use is associated with cognitive decline, particularly in young adults.
• Mental Health Disorders: Marajuana addiction can exacerbate anxiety, depression, and psychosis. According to Di Forti, M., et al.’s 2019 study, ‘The Contribution of Cannabis Use to Variation in the Incidence of Psychotic Disorder Across Europe’, frequent marijuana use increases the risk of developing mental health issues by up to 40%, particularly in individuals who begin using marijuana before the age of 18. 
• Respiratory Issues: Smoking marijuana can lead to chronic bronchitis, lung irritation, and other respiratory problems. These respiratory issues are caused by inhaling harmful chemicals present in marijuana smoke. According to Tashkin, D. P., et al. ‘s 2012 study, ‘Effects of Marijuana Smoking on Lung Function and Respiratory Symptoms’,regular marijuana smokers are at a 25-30% higher risk of developing chronic bronchitis and persistent coughing. 
• Impaired Social Functioning: Marijuana addiction can lead to difficulties in maintaining relationships and fulfilling social responsibilities. According to Budney, A. J., et al. ‘s 2007 study, ‘Social and Interpersonal Impacts of Cannabis Use Disorder’, 40-60% of individuals with cannabis use disorder struggle with social interactions, leading to deteriorating relationships and social isolation.  
• Physical Health Problems: Chronic marijuana use can lead to physical health issues such as weight gain, cardiovascular problems, and weakened immune system. According to Drug and Alcohol Dependence, these effects are due to lifestyle changes and the physiological impact of THC.

How Is Marijuana Addiction Treated? 

Marijuana addiction treatment typically involves a combination of behavioral therapies, like CBT, medications, support groups, and medical supervision. 

• Behavioral therapies are usually part of intensive treatment programs that last several weeks to a few months, with ongoing sessions recommended for at least a year. 
• Medications are sometimes integrated into the initial treatment phase and may continue for several months or longer, depending on the individual’s needs. 
• Support Groups provide ongoing peer support. Individuals are encouraged to attend meetings regularly, which can continue indefinitely as part of their long-term recovery plan.
• Medically Supervised Detoxification is the initial phase of treatment, lasting from a few days to a week, during which withdrawal symptoms are managed.

Therapy

Therapy is a structured treatment process that involves the interaction between a trained professional such as a psychologist, therapist, or counselor and an individual, group, or family, aimed at addressing emotional, behavioral, and psychological issues. 

Behavioral therapies like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), contingency management, and motivational interviewing focus on modifying drug-use behaviors, developing coping strategies, and addressing the psychological aspects of addiction. Behavioral therapy programs typically last from 12 to 24 weeks, but long-term support and maintenance therapy may continue for several years to prevent relapse.

A study published in JAMA Psychiatry found that integrating behavioral therapy with MAT led to a significant reduction in relapse rates and improved long-term outcomes compared to MAT alone. The American Psychological Association highlights that CBT alone reduces relapse rates by up to 40-50% over a year. Behavioral therapy addresses underlying emotional and psychological triggers and can be tailored to the needs of the individual, but this approach requires a long-term commitment and may not be easily accessible to all due to the cost of ongoing therapy sessions. 

Self Help Groups

Self-help groups like Marijuana Anonymous (MA) , provide ongoing peer support and a community of individuals in recovery. These groups help maintain long-term sobriety and prevent relapse. Participation in support groups is ongoing and can last many years, as continuous support is crucial for sustained recovery.

Research published in Alcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research indicates that participation in 12-step programs leads to a 20-30% improvement in sustained recovery rates over time. A study in Addiction found that regular engagement in support groups enhances social support and reduces the risk of relapse. 

While support groups offer free, ongoing support in a community setting, participation is largely self-motivated when not part of a larger, structured treatment plan. Support groups are also not designed to address an individual’s deeper psychological and emotional issues around addiction. 

offer peer support and a structured program for recovery. They provide a supportive community and promote shared experiences, which is a crucial part of sustainable long-term recovery. The drawback of self-help groups is that they are not designed to provide in-depth one-on-one support that can address the root causes of addiction. Participation in support groups can be ongoing, with members attending regular meetings as part of their recovery journey.

Treating Underlying Symptoms

Underlying symptoms refer to the root causes or contributing factors that may not be immediately visible but drive the development and persistence of a condition, such as addiction or mental health disorders. Properly treating underlying symptoms involves diagnosing and treating underlying mental health issues (e.g., depression, anxiety, PTSD) and socio-environmental factors contributing to substance use. Treatment often includes a combination of psychiatric care, trauma therapy, and social services. 

Studies in The American Journal of Psychiatry show that addressing co-occurring disorders significantly improves treatment outcomes, with a 50% reduction in relapse when both conditions are treated concurrently. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) emphasizes integrated care as essential for effective recovery. While this approach is effective because it targets the root causes of addiction and improves the chances of long-term recovery, it requires comprehensive care from various health providers, which may be difficult for some to access due to the high cost.

Once a patient has gone through a medically supervised detox, which takes about 5-10 days, they can receive the support they need to address underlying emotional and psychological wounds. Inpatient rehab lasts anywhere from 30-90 days but can last up to 6 months or longer, depending on the severity of the addiction and the individual’s progress. Outpatient rehab has no fixed time frame and is tailored to address a person’s unique needs. 

How To Deal With Marijuana Cravings?

To deal with marijuana cravings consider strategies like  avoiding isolation, finding stimulating activities, and practicing mindfulness techniques. Keep in mind that these strategies can complement, but are not a replacement for participating in a treatment program. 

Avoid Isolation

Isolation refers to the physical, emotional, and social withdrawal from relationships, activities, and environments that were once part of an individual’s daily life. As addiction progresses, individuals often retreat from family, friends, work, and social responsibilities, preferring to be alone or surrounded only by others who enable or share in their substance use.

 Being isolated makes it harder to resist the urge to use marijuana while staying connected to friends and family, and a network of support provides emotional support. Engaging with a supportive social network helps reduce feelings of loneliness and offers a distraction from the urge to drugs. Social interactions can also provide accountability and encouragement to maintain healthy behaviors.

Find Stimulating Activities 

Stimulating activities refer to engaging, purposeful tasks or hobbies that help individuals stay focused, mentally active, and emotionally balanced during recovery from marijuana addiction. These activities are designed to provide positive stimulation to the brain’s reward system, which has often been damaged or altered by substance use. 

Physical activities like running, cycling, or dancing can provide a natural high, releasing endorphins that improve mood and reduce stress. Some people find that the adrenaline rush from engaging in sports activities such as rock climbing is especially useful in replacing the high their body is used to receiving from stimulant drugs. 

Mindfulness Techniques

Relaxation techniques are practices designed to reduce stress and tension in the body and mind, promoting a state of calm and well-being. These techniques help activate the body’s relaxation response, counteracting the stress response and lowering levels of stress hormones like cortisol. Some examples of relaxation techniques include mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, and yoga can help reduce stress and cravings. These techniques promote relaxation and enhance emotional regulation, making it easier to cope with the urge to use heroin.

Research published in JAMA Internal Medicine indicates that mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) reduce substance use relapse by 40-45% and decrease the intensity of cravings by up to 30% compared to standard treatment alone.

FAQs

Is marijuana addiction a disease?

Yes, marijuana addiction is considered a disease. Medical experts, including the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM), define substance addiction as a chronic brain disorder that interferes with normal brain function and behavior. 

Does marijuana addiction cause depression? 

Yes, it can.  According to Gorfinkel, L., et al.’s 2020 study, ‘Association of Cannabis Use With Self-Reported Symptoms of Depression and Anxiety in Cannabis-Using Adults’, 20-30% of chronic marijuana users report experiencing depressive symptoms, and individuals who begin using marijuana in their teenage years are more likely to develop clinical depression in adulthood. This is because marijuana affects the brain’s reward system and neurotransmitter balance, which can influence mood regulation. 

Is marijuana addiction dangerous?       

Yes. Although it is not considered as harmful as other drugs, marijuana addiction can lead to severe mental, physical, and emotional side effects. According to Di Forti, M., et al.’s 2019 study, ‘The Contribution of Cannabis Use to Variation in the Incidence of Psychotic Disorder Across Europe’, frequent marijuana users are at 2-3 times greater risk of developing psychosis or schizophrenia, especially in those predisposed to mental health issues. 

Is marijuana addiction genetic?

Yes, it can be. Genetic factors contribute to an individual’s susceptibility to substance addictions, including cannabis. Individuals with a family history of addiction may have a higher risk due to inherited genetic predispositions that affect impulse control, reward processing, and risk-taking behaviors.

According to Goldstein, D. B., et al. ‘s 2010 study, ‘Genetic Contributions to Substance Abuse Disorders’, genetic predisposition plays a role in 40-60% of an individual’s likelihood of developing an addiction.