Is Marijuana a Stimulant or Depressant?

Marijuana has many street names. It can be referred to as weed, pot, and grass—among other names. You may also hear it called cannabis, as the drug comes from the Cannabis sativa plant. Legal in many states now, recreational marijuana use is starting to become as common as alcohol use. Unfortunately, just like alcohol abuse, marijuana abuse can lead to addiction. If you or a loved one cannot function without being high on the drug, then it is time to seek addiction treatment. The Right Step offers marijuana addiction treatment at multiple locations across Texas. Call today to speak to a treatment specialist at 17135283709.

Finding Out if Marijuana Is a Stimulant or Depressant

Is marijuana a stimulant or depressant? The simple answer to this question is that it is both a stimulant and a depressant. It affects the central nervous system by either creating a calm and relaxing state or by creating an energetic and euphoric feeling.

Marijuana’s depressant qualities can include:

  • A sense of relaxation
  • A release of muscle tension
  • Drowsy feelings
  • Light-headedness
  • Trouble with short-term memory 

Marijuana possesses stimulative qualities that can lead to a range of effects. Users often experience increased energy and an enhanced mood, sometimes reaching a state of euphoria. Additionally, it can heighten the senses and result in an accelerated heart rate. However, it’s important to note that some individuals may also experience anxiety and paranoia as side effects.

While not considered as dangerous as other narcotics, someone can still become addicted to marijuana. If one becomes dependent on the drug to function in their everyday life, and any of the symptoms above are experienced regularly, then professional addiction treatment should be looked into. 

Exploring Why Addiction Treatment Is Necessary for Marijuana Abuse

If you feel marijuana addiction treatment is the natural next step, then reach out to a drug rehab center right away. The rehab experience helps clients overcome their addiction through a variety of therapies, both traditional and experiential. Being in comfortable surroundings, among peers going through a similar experience, and with the support of professionals will make the difference between entering recovery or relapsing into old habits.

The first step of rehab usually involves a detox program where the addictive substance is safely removed from your system without the risk of relapse. Clients will then work with the therapeutic team through a custom plan of therapies to get to the root of the addiction. Building effective coping tools and techniques is the goal so that each person can go back to a healthy and productive life where they can manage triggers on their own without worrying about temptation. Each rehab experience will be unique, but the goal of treating marijuana abuse is the same—lifelong recovery.

Therapeutic approaches that are commonly part of rehab for marijuana abuse can include:

  • Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
  • Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
  • Group therapy
  • Family therapy
  • Experiential therapy

One of the biggest benefits of rehab is the strong support network you will build. Sober support is an essential part of the recovery journey. This can include family, friends, peers, and treatment professionals. 

Contact The Right Step Today for Marijuana Addiction Treatment

The laws around marijuana use are ever-changing, and new medical benefits are still being discovered. Many people think it’s a more acceptable drug to use because it is legal to purchase and use recreationally in many parts of the country. However, because it has both depressive and stimulant properties—similar to alcohol—it can also become an addictive substance. The bottom line is that if you think you or someone you care about are becoming too dependent on marijuana use, and it’s negatively affecting your life, then it’s time to seek professional help to get back on track. 

Call The Right Step today at 17135283709 or complete the online form to inquire about treatment. A therapeutic professional is ready to answer any questions you may have about drug use and treatment options. 

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