What is Marijuana Abuse

Understanding Marijuana Abuse

Marijuana is one of the most popular substances of abuse in the United States. While many people mistakenly believe that marijuana is a “safe” drug, the abuse of this substance can result in negative consequences.

Marijuana produces feelings of relaxation and a sense of detachment, and it can be addictive. Dependence upon marijuana is known clinically as cannabis use disorder. If you become addicted to marijuana, you may be at increased risk for physical, psychological, and social harm.

Thankfully, there is treatment available that can help you overcome an addiction to marijuana.

Statistics

Statistics of Marijuana Abuse

The American Psychiatric Association (APA) reports that marijuana is one of the most commonly abused psychoactive substances in the world. The 12-month prevalence of cannabis use disorder in American adults over age 18 is roughly 1.5%. Statistics indicate that more men than women abuse marijuana, with 2.2% of men abusing it compared to 0.8% of women.

Causes

What are the Causes of Marijuana Abuse

The causes and risk factors connected to a person’s likelihood of abusing marijuana can be explained further in the following:

Genetic: Individuals who possess a family history of substance abuse, including the abuse of marijuana, are at greater risk for abusing marijuana than are those who do not have this type of family history.

Environmental: Certain environmental factors can affect one’s likelihood of abusing marijuana and eventually struggling with cannabis use disorder. The APA states that having a low socioeconomic status, living in an unstable environment, experiencing abuse or neglect, smoking tobacco, or struggling academically can all increase the risk for marijuana abuse. Additionally, associating with others who abuse marijuana can also increase this risk.

Risk Factors:

Family history of substance abuse and addiction
Suffering from antisocial personality disorder
Lacking inhibition
Suffering from conduct disorder during childhood or adolescence
Being the victim of abuse and/or neglect
Having easy access to marijuana

Signs and Symptoms

Learn More About the Signs and Symptoms of Marijuana Abuse

The signs and symptoms that an individual who is abusing marijuana might display can vary, yet commonly include the following symptoms:

Behavioral symptoms:

Withdrawing from friends and family members
Being in possession of drug paraphernalia
Engaging in behaviors that could be deemed risky or reckless
Unexplained absences from work
Decline in performance at work
No longer participating in activities that were once enjoyed

Physical symptoms:

Impaired motor coordination
Dry mouth
Bloodshot eyes
Increased appetite

Cognitive symptoms:

Perceptual disturbances
Impaired judgment
Experiencing the sensation of time slowing down

Psychosocial symptoms:

Euphoria
Irritability
Agitation
Decline interest in things that one once found pleasurable
Anxiety

Effects

Understanding the Effects of Marijuana Abuse

Abusing marijuana can lead to many detriments throughout a person’s life. Both psychosocial and cognitive functioning can be affected, as can one’s physical health and overall wellbeing. Some of these effects can include the following:

Disturbed social relationships
Interaction with law enforcement
Familial strife, including divorce or loss of child custody
Suffering from an acute episode of psychosis
Onset of new, or worsening of preexisting, symptoms of mental health disorders
Cognitive impairment
Disturbances in one’s ability to perform occupationally, potentially leading to job loss or demotion
Respiratory illnesses

Withdrawal and Overdose

Learn More About the Effects of Marijuana Withdrawal and Overdose

When individuals who have been abusing marijuana suddenly end their use, a number of withdrawal symptoms can develop. While withdrawing from marijuana likely will not be as painful as withdrawing from other substances like alcohol or heroin, it can still produce distress. Some of these symptoms can include the following: