Marijuana has a reputation for being a relatively harmless substance – especially as its use becomes more socially accepted and legally accessible. But the truth is that cannabis is a psychoactive drug that can cause physical and psychological dependence, especially when used regularly and in high doses.
You may be dependent on cannabis if you’ve struggled to quit or experienced unpleasant symptoms when you’re sober. Hemet Valley Recovery Center & Sage Retreat helps our clients safely detox from all addictive substances, including marijuana.
Is Weed Really Addictive?
Many people mistakenly believe marijuana isn’t addictive, but evidence suggests people who use cannabis have a 30% chance of becoming addicted.
Cannabis dependence develops when your brain adapts to regular marijuana use, reducing its natural production of neurotransmitters like dopamine. Over time, you may find yourself needing to use weed just to feel “normal” or avoid discomfort.
Some signs of cannabis addiction include:
- Needing to use more to feel the same effects as your tolerance builds
- Using high doses of weed daily
- Feeling anxious, irritable or restless when you are sober
- Struggling to stop or cut back, even if you genuinely want to
- Prioritizing marijuana over your relationships, responsibilities or health
- Using marijuana to cope with anxiety, depression or boredom
What Are the Withdrawal Symptoms From Weed?
Though withdrawing from cannabis is rarely dangerous, symptoms like these can be uncomfortable and emotionally destabilizing.
- Irritability or mood swings
- Insomnia or disturbed sleep
- Decreased appetite
- Anxiety and restlessness
- Depression or low motivation
- Headaches
- Intense cravings
These symptoms typically begin within 24 to 72 hours after quitting and can last up to two weeks or longer, depending on your usage history and health. Experiencing withdrawal is an undeniable sign of physical dependence, which indicates you may benefit from professional detox.
What to Expect During Weed Detox
While cannabis withdrawal isn’t typically life-threatening, people who have co-occurring mental health disorders or other substance dependencies may experience more intense symptoms. Hemet Valley Recovery Center & Sage Retreat’s hospital-based detox services help clients safely and comfortably stop using marijuana.
During detox, you can expect:
- 24/7 medical supervision to monitor your vital signs and ease discomfort
- Emotional care to address mood swings, cravings and psychological distress
- Structured daily routine to begin replacing old habits with healthy ones
- Sleep and nutrition support to stabilize your physical well-being
- Therapy to begin addressing your underlying reasons for using marijuana
Our qualified health providers will work closely with you to make detox safe, comfortable and effective, while preparing you for the next steps in recovery.
The Long-Term Consequences of Cannabis Misuse
For some people, prolonged marijuana use can lead to serious issues beyond withdrawal, including:
- Memory and concentration problems
- Increased anxiety or panic attacks
- Low motivation or difficulty functioning
- Sleep disturbances
- Increased risk of depression and psychosis, especially in those with a personal or family history of mental illness
The more potent the strain and the earlier you start using, the higher your risk for lasting cognitive and emotional consequences. High-THC cannabis products like dabs, edibles and vapes are especially dangerous.
Don’t Attempt to Quit Alone
Whether you use marijuana to cope with stress, manage chronic pain or “take the edge off,” quitting can be harder than it seems. Cannabis use disorder is real, and you deserve compassionate care to help you break the cycle.
Hemet Valley Recovery Center & Sage Retreat offers a comprehensive, hospital-based approach to detox and recovery. Our team understands the complexities of cannabis dependence and will work with you to create a personalized plan for lasting change.
Professional detox can help you feel like yourself again if you’ve tried to stop using weed but can’t, or if withdrawal symptoms prove too overwhelming. Contact us today to learn more about recovering from marijuana dependence in a safe, structured environment.