While many people believe marijuana is a comparatively “safe” drug due to its growing legality and social acceptance, it is possible for your body and brain to become dependent on it. You may have a physical or psychological dependency if you struggle to stop using marijuana, despite its intrusion on your responsibilities, relationships, health, and quality of life.
Warning Signs of Marijuana Addiction
Recognizing these red flags of marijuana addiction is crucial for seeking timely help.
- Increased tolerance: Needing larger amounts of marijuana to get the same effect.
- Withdrawal symptoms: Experiencing irritability, mood and sleep difficulties, decreased appetite, cravings, restlessness, and various forms of physical discomfort when you are sober.
- Loss of control: Using more marijuana for longer than you expected, or spending a lot of time recovering from the aftereffects.
- Unsuccessful attempts to quit: Unsuccessful efforts to reduce or quit cannabis use, despite a genuine desire to do so.
- Reduced activities: Giving up social, occupational, or recreational activities in favor of marijuana use.
The Impact of Cannabis Addiction on Women
The effects of marijuana addiction can be particularly complex for women due to biological, psychological, and cultural factors. Societal expectations may influence or mask the signs of dependency.
- Biological impact: Women often build a tolerance more quickly than men – a phenomenon called “telescoping.”
- Mental health: Using cannabis to cope with anxiety, depression, and stress can exacerbate these underlying issues if you become dependent.
- Societal expectations: Women face intense pressure to balance work, social life, and family, and the stigma around substance use can be particularly challenging. Hiding or denying your use will ultimately make it harder for you and others to recognize when you need help.
- Parenting and pregnancy: Cannabis use can have specific implications for pregnant women and mothers, affecting their health and parental responsibilities.
Treatment and Recovery
Marijuana addiction treatment should consider women’s unique needs and challenges.
- Behavioral therapies: Evidence-based practices like cognitive behavioral therapy and motivational enhancement therapy can help you uncover the root cause of your addiction and equip you with realistic coping strategies.
- Comprehensive care: Addressing co-occurring mental health issues such as anxiety or depression can enhance your recovery outcomes.
- Community support: Joining a support group can provide a network of encouragement and understanding, which is particularly beneficial for women who may feel isolated due to their addiction.
Wellness for Women in Pensacola
Any drug, including marijuana, can change your brain chemistry and severely impact your life. As a woman, recognizing the warning signs of marijuana addiction and admitting you need help will allow you to find appropriate treatment options.
The Pearl is a women’s-only recovery community where you can find a unique blend of camaraderie and compassion. We understand the complexities of addiction in women and have created a haven where you can heal and build the foundation for lifelong sobriety. Contact us today to learn how to find strength in sisterhood.
