Marijuana Addiction Treatment Toronto
With the recent legalization of marijuana across Canada, it has now become a socially acceptable drug, much like alcohol or tobacco. While it is true that marijuana does not contain any physically addictive substances, it can be psychologically addictive by offering an escape from daily troubles. Long term use can even cause both physical and psychological issues that can affect your health, social interactions and emotional well-being.
Freedom From Addiction offers a world-class marijuana addiction treatment facility in Toronto. Our focus on holistic healthcare along with treating the root psychological causes of addiction allows us to improve the chances of staying sober and preventing relapse.
What is Marijuana?
Marijuana, also known as weed, pot or bud, is a psychoactive drug from the Cannabis plant family. It is one of the oldest forms of drug use in the world, dating back to the third millennium BC. It can come in a range of forms; commonly dry leaf, tinctures, oils, capsules or compressed tablets. As of October 2018, marijuana is now unscheduled in Canada, meaning it is legal to use, possess, sell and purchase across the country.
The main effects associated with marijuana use are relaxation, changes in perception, increased appetite, heightened mood and increased libido. Physical effects of marijuana use include red eyes, dry mouth, increased heart rate, lower blood pressure, decreased coordination and impaired short term memory. Depending on the route of administration, effects from marijuana can last anywhere from an hour or two up to six hours. Marijuana is usually smoked or ingested.
The primary psychoactive compound in marijuana is tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), among some 483 other known cannabinoids. Different strains will vary in their THC content, meaning that each high has the potential to be different from the last. While THC is not physically addictive, the mental escape offered by the drug can present an opportunity for psychological dependence. Long term users will develop a tolerance for the drug, requiring more to achieve the same level of high. Social perception states that there is no such thing as marijuana addiction, however, this is not true. If you notice that you cannot get through the day without getting high, you might need to seek marijuana addiction treatment.
The Effects Of Long Term Marijuana Use
Long term use of marijuana can cause a range of physical, emotional, and psychological issues that can lead to significant impairment.
If marijuana is smoked, there is evidence to suggest that it can result in a range of breathing and lung complications, including shortness of breath, excessive coughing, mucus production, and bronchodilation. Long term use in any form can result in a condition known as cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome, which is characterized by recurrent nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain.
Another severe side effect of long term marijuana use is the possibility of triggering psychosis and other mental conditions. Users with a family history of mental illness are at a particular risk of developing deeper psychological issues, which can be extremely difficult to reverse once they have been triggered.
Signs of Marijuana Addiction
The signs of marijuana addiction can be harder to identify than other types of drug addiction, due to the lack of actual physical dependence. However, there are some signs to look out for that are characteristic of marijuana addiction, such as:
- Increased anxiety, paranoia, or other mental issues
- Weight gain
- Constantly red eyes
- Hacking, repetitive cough
- Prioritizing marijuana use above all other social or personal responsibilities
- Learning difficulties
- Spending unsustainable amounts of money on marijuana
While marijuana is now legal across Canada, it does not mean there is no risk of forming an addiction. If you notice any of the above symptoms in yourself or a loved one, you may need to seek marijuana addiction treatment.
Marijuana Addiction Treatment At Freedom From Addiction
At Freedom From Addiction, we strongly believe that the best marijuana addiction treatment option is a combination of therapy and detoxification.
Our state of the art medical detox facility allows users to get clean in a safe and monitored environment. Our medical professionals will be able to provide relief from some withdrawal symptoms, helping clients to get through the withdrawal stage without relapsing. Once detoxification has been completed, we proceed with a comprehensive program of cognitive behavioural therapy, individual and group therapy sessions, and physical exercise to help our clients lead the best lives they can lead.
This method effectively expels every last remnant of the drug from our clients’ systems and gives them the necessary psychological and social tools to help them live their lives without marijuana. We also place a strong focus on helping our clients find more useful methods of coping with their problems that don’t involve drugs or substance abuse at all.
As one of the only privately owned and rundrug rehab facilities in Toronto to be awarded Qmentum level accreditation by Accreditation Canada, we offer exceptional inpatient treatment options for people of all backgrounds battling various addictions.
For more information on how we can help you live a more fulfilling and happy life without depending on marijuana, please contact us today!
