The legalization of marijuana has taken hold across the United States. Marijuana has been shown to be effective in treating certain medical conditions. Over the years, many states in the country have legalized the drug for medical use. People can use marijuana to treat conditions like Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, and some cancers. More recently, several states have also approved it for recreational use. Like any legal—or illegal—drug, marijuana can also become addictive with excessive use.
If you or someone you care about struggles with addiction to this drug, you can seek help through a marijuana addiction treatment program. Contact The Right Step at 17135283709 to learn more about marijuana use disorder and the troubling effects of marijuana legalization.
What Do You Need to Know About Marijuana Legalization?
In 1996, California became the first state to legalize the medical use of marijuana. In 2012, the states of Colorado and Washington were the first to legalize the drug’s recreational use. As of this article’s writing, marijuana is legal in 38 states for medical use and 24 states for recreational use.
Medical Legalization
With a doctor’s prescription, a person can obtain marijuana for medical usage through an authorized dispensary in a state where medical marijuana sales are legal. You can carry the drug on you for this purpose without the risk of being arrested, although there may be a limit on the amount you can have in your possession at once.
Recreational Legalization
With recreational use, you can legally use the drug for any reason. It can be purchased through authorized retailers, just like alcohol can be. You must be 21 to make a legal purchase, and there are limitations on how much you can purchase at a time. You can carry the drug on your person, just like you would a pack of cigarettes.
Why Is Marijuana Use Disorder a Problem?
While marijuana may have certain medical benefits and is now legal for recreational use in some states, it can still be addictive. The drug contains chemicals affecting the brain’s pleasure center, leading to happiness and relaxation. However, with continuous use, the brain can become desensitized to these effects, leading to an increase in usage and potential dependence.
Like any other substance use disorder (SUD), there are warning signs that a person may be struggling with marijuana addiction. These signs include:
- Using more than intended or for more extended periods
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when trying to stop using
- Neglecting responsibilities and activities due to drug use
- Spending a significant amount of time and money on obtaining and using the drug
If you or someone you know exhibits these signs, it may be time to seek help.
Seeking Help for Marijuana Addiction
Once addicted to any substance, it’s hard to quit, especially on one’s own. An effective detox, withdrawal, and treatment experience requires the support of family, friends, peers, and professionals. Having a variety of therapies to utilize as part of treatment is also highly beneficial. Treatment programs can include:
- Medically supervised detox
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
- Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR)
- Motivational interviewing
- Group therapy
- Individual therapy
- Experiential therapies like yoga, massage, or equine therapy
- Aftercare support
Each client may not engage in every one of these therapeutic modalities, but having this variety allows each treatment plan to be a unique combination of therapies that works for that specific person. The goal of sobriety is universal, but how you get there can vary from person to person.
Contact The Right Step to Enroll in Marijuana Addiction Treatment
With the growing legalization of marijuana, more and more people are experimenting with its use. Unfortunately, this can lead to addiction. Just like with alcohol, if you consume too much of it too often, it can affect your everyday life and responsibilities negatively.
Marijuana addiction treatment is easily accessible through a professional treatment center like The Right Step. Contact our team online or call 17135283709 to learn more about our marijuana addiction treatment in Texas.
