Why is Marijuana Addictive?
While many use cannabis and THC products without serious problems, marijuana addiction is quite real. Some develop cravings, tolerance, and even mild withdrawal that make quitting difficult, in spite of negative consequences.
Today’s marijuana is stronger than ever, and more people are seeking treatment for marijuana dependence than at any other time. Marijuana addiction can unquestionably have a negative impact in people’s lives and marijuana addiction treatment can help.
What to know about marijuana:
- Regular marijuana use can and does lead to addiction for many people.
- Marijuana is less dangerous than some drugs, but it’s far from harmless.
- Today’s marijuana is far more powerful than it was just 20-30 years ago.
- Episodes of marijuana-induced psychosis have climbed steadily, concerning addiction psychiatrists.
- Yes, people do go to rehab for marijuana addiction and it works!
Is Marijuana Really Addictive?
The short answer is yes. We’ve come a long way from the “Reefer Madness” era when alarmist language and misinformation were used to try and frighten people away from cannabis. Many states have even legalized medical and/or recreation use of marijuana.
But don’t misunderstand this to mean that marijuana is harmless or that people don’t become addicted to it. Neither of those things are true. It is a fact that marijuana is generally less dangerous than other narcotics and even alcohol. But again, that does not mean it’s harmless. Cannabis Use Disorder has very real consequences.
People can and do become addicted to marijuana.
Marijuana: Dependence vs. Addiction
Part of the reason people often claim “marijuana isn’t addictive” is that ceasing cannabis use isn’t associated with the harsh withdrawal symptoms you see from alcohol, opioids or benzos.
However, physical withdrawal is a sign of dependence, NOT addiction.
While you may not face intense physical withdrawal from marijuana, an addiction to marijuana can absolutely be a life-altering disorder that requires substance abuse treatment to overcome.
Dependence and Addiction
Drug Dependence
When your body gets used to a drug and needs it to feel normal. Stopping suddenly brings uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms.
Drug Addiction
When cravings and obsession drive you to keep using something, even though it’s hurting your health, finances, relationships, job, etc.
THC, the active compound in marijuana can cause both physical dependence and mental craving (addiction). The physical dependence is mild, yes, but any heavy marijuana user who has abruptly stopped before knows that THC withdrawal is real. Insomnia, irritability, depression and other symptoms are common.
As for addiction to marijuana, there are millions of regular marijuana users in the U.S. How many do you think have claimed they can “quit anytime”, yet never seem to get around to it?
Consider how many of them are experiencing consequences due to their marijuana use, but continue anyway? Food for thought.
Think you or your family member may have a problem with marijuana use and want to explore treatment options? We can help. Start by clicking the Check Insurance button below.
When is Treatment for Marijuana Addiction Necessary?
This is something that only the person with the marijuana habit can decide. If you use marijuana and you’ve found yourself reading this page, then odds are you searched “marijuana addiction” or something similar. That suggests that at least some part of you believes marijuana use is a problem for you.
When is marijuana addiction treatment called for? The simple answer is: anytime someone wants to quit using cannabis and THC products or knows they should, but they have been unsuccessful in their efforts. If you want to quit or need to quit, but you can’t—it’s time to consider treatment for cannabis use disorder.
Marijuana Addiction Self‑Check: Is it a Problem?
Ask and answer these questions honestly:
Do I use marijuana almost every day, even when I didn’t plan to?
Have I noticed my tolerance going up? Do I need stronger strains or more now?
Do I rely on marijuana to relax, sleep, or cope with stress instead of other strategies?
Have I skipped work, school or social activity because I was high or wanted to get high?
Do I spend more money on marijuana than I’d like to admit?
Have friends, family, or coworkers commented on how often I use?
Do I feel irritable, restless, or have trouble sleeping when I try to cut back?
Has marijuana use made me less motivated or less interested in things I used to enjoy?
Do I tell myself I’ll take a break but end up using again quickly?
Do I tell myself I’ll take a break but end up using again quickly?
Cannabis Use Disorder Treatment in Missouri
If you’re tired of your weed use and its consequences and you want help to stop, you’re in luck. Paradigm Recovery Centers offers Missouri’s most comprehensive marijuana addiction treatment programs.
We know weed and we know how to help you quit and stay stopped. Are you ready to take back your motivation and drive? Is your loved one finally willing to admit marijuana is a problem and accept help?
If so, we should talk.
At Paradigm Recovery Centers, we don’t just help people stop using cannabis and THC products. We help them understand their addiction, identify triggers, and build healthier ways of thinking and living. With practical support, counseling, and relapse prevention strategies, we create a foundation for lasting recovery.
4 Things Marijuana Rehab Can Do for You or Your Loved One
Provide education about marijuana use and how dependence develops, along with tools to manage cravings and triggers
Help you recognize patterns in thinking and behavior that keep you stuck, and guide you toward healthier choices
Support motivation and focus so you can rebuild energy, memory, and daily routines without relying on marijuana
Equip you with coping skills and structure to handle stress, improve relationships, and maintain long‑term recovery
Marijuana Addiction Treatment in Missouri
Marijuana may be seen as less harmful than other drugs, but dependence still has real negative impacts for many people. It can disrupt focus, motivation, and relationships. It can rob you of your drive and leave you at the bottom of a bong while you watch your dreams and goals in life pass you by.
At Paradigm Recovery Centers, we understand cannabis use disorder better than most and provide care that helps people regain balance and control.
You don’t have to figure it out alone. Whether you’re seeking help for yourself or someone you love, our admissions team is here to answer questions and guide you forward.
Call (660) 460-5750 or reach out through our web form today and start making change happen.