With the recent influx of states around the US legalizing medicinal and recreational marijuana, the amount of users has understandably increased in recent years. Even though there is now a larger population of people using marijuana, many believe that marijuana is not addictive. However, the drug can be addictive and cause you to experience withdrawal symptoms when you cease to use it. Understanding these symptoms can deter people from using the drug regularly or at all and bring more attention to its addictive qualities.
What is Withdrawal?
Withdrawal is a set of symptoms that occurs when someone consumes drugs or alcohol on a regular basis and then ceases consumption or significantly reduces the amount used. Withdrawal symptoms happen because your brain becomes dependent on the substances; it is used to them being present in your system. As you become physically dependent on drugs, your body gradually adapts to the presence of drugs in your system. But when you abruptly stop using drugs after long-term use, your body can become violently ill and produce a range of withdrawal symptoms as it tries to adapt to the sudden absence of drugs.
Withdrawal symptoms vary between substances and people. They are typically more severe if a person takes drugs or alcohol in larger quantities or has been consuming them for a longer period of time. Symptoms can last days, weeks, or even months before the substance is completely expelled from the body.
Marijuana Withdrawal Symptoms
Symptoms of marijuana withdrawal occur when a regular user stops using the drug or significantly reduces the amount they use. Symptoms can be mild to severe, but they are typically not as severe as withdrawal symptoms from other substances such as opioids, cocaine, and alcohol. Even so, physical and psychological symptoms can occur.
THC is the primary psychoactive component of marijuana, and it is usually the culprit for withdrawal symptoms. Your brain becomes dependent on the presence of THC and must adjust to no longer have it; this is when withdrawal symptoms occur.
Common symptoms of marijuana withdrawal include:
- Headaches
- Irritability
- Sweating
- Chills
- Stomach aches
- Mood swings
- Decreased appetite
- Problems concentrating
- Depression
- Insomnia
- Intense cravings
Using marijuana for an extended period of time can result in withdrawal symptoms when consumption stops. Withdrawal is a set of unpleasant symptoms as your body adjusts to no longer having THC in its system. If you believe you may be addicted to marijuana and need help, contact Alta Loma Transformational Services. We specialize in helping men overcome addiction and boosting their overall mental health and wellness. Through our individualized programs and numerous treatment methods, you can be sure that Alta Loma can help you recover. Call (866) 457-3843 today.
