Adolescents who use marijuana frequently are at risk for decreased IQ scores later in life with research finding that on this population’s IQ is decreased by about 8 points on average. [3] X Trustworthy Source National Institute on Drug Abuse Agency in the U. S. Department of Health and Human Services devoted to researching drug and drug abuse and educating the public Go to source Additionally, a longitudinal study conducted over sixteen years found that marijuana users are four times more likely to develop depression than non-users. [4] X Research source Although not as common, abuse of medical marijuana or drugs containing cannabinoids (such as THC) can also occur. THC is just one of over 100 other cannabinoids that the marijuana plant contains. [5] X Trustworthy Source National Institute on Drug Abuse Agency in the U. S. Department of Health and Human Services devoted to researching drug and drug abuse and educating the public Go to source Because cannabinoids have a large effect on the body—affecting everything from pleasure regulation and appetite to memory and concentration—they can have serious health effects when abused. [6] X Trustworthy Source National Institute on Drug Abuse Agency in the U. S. Department of Health and Human Services devoted to researching drug and drug abuse and educating the public Go to source
Irritability Mood changes Difficulty sleeping Decreased appetite Cravings Restlessness Various forms of physical discomfort
Used much more marijuana in one sitting than intended Tried to stop using marijuana but failed Had strong cravings or desire to use marijuana Used marijuana even though it caused or worsened symptoms of depression or anxiety Had to increase usage to achieve the same effects Had use interfere with personal responsibilities, school, or work Continued to use marijuana even though it caused fights or arguments with family or friends Stopped participating in previously important activities in order to use marijuana Used marijuana in situations where it may be dangerous, such as driving a car or operating machinery
There may have been goals that your loved one gave up on when turning to marijuana as a way to cope. [9] X Research source Reminding your loved one of goals from the past may help him to see a brighter future with purpose.
Letting your loved one know that you are available for support and comfort but that drug use will no longer be allowed in your home Telling your loved one that you care for and love them, but that you will no longer be able to provide them money Telling the person that you will no longer make excuses for them or try to save them from the potential consequences of their drug use. Informing your loved one that while you care about them, you will not be able to drop everything to come to their aid for drug-related reasons
Arguing with the person for using Attempting to hide of throw away the person’s marijuana stash
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) - CBT is used to teach strategies to identify and correct thoughts and behaviors to enhance self-control, stop drug use, and handle other issues that may occur. Contingency management - This approach uses frequent monitoring of the target behavior and the use of positive reinforcement to help modify behavior. Motivational enhancement therapy - This therapy aims to produce changes internally driven by the addict’s own motivation to stop using. Seeing a therapist during this period may also help the person confront the issues that led to marijuana use as a coping mechanism in the first place. There are no medications on the market for the addiction counselor (via a psychiatrist) to prescribe to treat marijuana addiction. [15] X Trustworthy Source National Institute on Drug Abuse Agency in the U. S. Department of Health and Human Services devoted to researching drug and drug abuse and educating the public Go to source However, a physician may prescribe medication for peripheral issues to help the person with anxiety, depression, or sleep disorders as he or she beats the dependency. [16] X Trustworthy Source National Institute on Drug Abuse Agency in the U. S. Department of Health and Human Services devoted to researching drug and drug abuse and educating the public Go to source
Marijuana addiction accounts for up to 17 percent of those in treatment facilities for addictions. [17] X Research source
Changes in appetite, sleep, or weight changes Red and/or glassy eyes Changes in appearance or personal hygiene Unusual (skunky) smells on the person’s body, breath, or clothing Reduced performance at school or work Suspicious requests for money or outright stealing money from family or friends Unusual or suspicious behavior Changes in friends or activities Changes in motivation or energy Changes in interpersonal style or attitude Changes in mood, frequent or sudden irritability, or anger outbursts
Try to take the person’s responsibilities Give into feelings of guilt over the person’s choices or actions.
