Marijuana is becoming more widely accepted, as well as legalized.
Nearly 55 million adults currently use marijuana, or roughly 15% of the adult population. Over the past five decades, the percentage of people who feel marijuana usage should be legal has risen 500%. More than half of the states in our nation have passed laws legalizing marijuana use in some form and Michigan now has legalized both medical and recreational marijuana use.
With easier access, usage will likely increase substantially, and issues could arise with some people. In addition to increased legalization, marijuana potency (meaning higher levels of THC) has roughly tripled in the past two decades.
Could addiction be a possibility?
Researchers do not yet know the full extent of effects on the body and the brain when exposed to high concentrations of THC. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, marijuana use disorder can develop in some people. Their data suggests 30% of those who use marijuana may have some degree of marijuana use disorder. It is speculated that the rise in marijuana potency is contributing to rising numbers.
What is marijuana use disorder, and how does it happen?
Marijuana use disorder is often associated with dependence –where a person feels withdrawal symptoms when not taking the drug. People who use marijuana frequently often report irritability, mood and sleep difficulties, decreased appetite, cravings, restlessness, and/or forms of physical discomfort that peak within the first week of trying to quit.
Marijuana dependence can occur when the brain adapts to large amounts of the drug by reducing production of and sensitivity to its own endocannabinoid neurotransmitters. Addiction of any type is when the person cannot stop using the drug even though it interferes with many aspects of their life.
Could I be addicted?
If you’re concerned about your use of marijuana or any other drug, click here to get a better understanding of the role marijuana may play in your life.
Can I quit marijuana cold turkey, and is it dangerous?
In the simplest of terms, YES – you can quit smoking weed cold turkey. According to Medical News Today, although withdrawal symptoms can be uncomfortable, they are not usually dangerous in comparison to withdrawal from opioids or alcohol — which can be life-threatening. You can naturally undergo the detoxification process of removing cannabis from your system without fearing for your safety. However; you will go through the unpleasant experience of physical withdrawal. Additionally, you will be fighting emotional urges to use caused by associations and triggers.
Can Alpha Lifestyle Center help if I want to quit marijuana?
Alpha Lifestyle Center has long been known as a “laser” program. While that is true, it is not the whole story. Our approach includes educating our customers and preparing them for quitting. The physiology of addiction is explained, and relapse prevention techniques are identified. A laser acupuncture treatment is included to relax the body and minimize withdrawal symptoms. Supplementation recommendations are made to support the body nutritionally and keep clients involved in their recovery. Finally, a free laser “booster” is included to help safeguard against relapse.
We don’t currently market our program to marijuana users because we have long been known as nicotine addiction specialists. However, marijuana users seeking to quit may benefit from the support we provide and tools we use.
Want to learn more?
If marijuana use has become a concern for you and you want some help with quitting, you can call us at 248-594-1303.
You may also find helpful information on our website, www.alphalaserinfo.com.
Alpha Lifestyle Center
1010 Bowers St.
Birmingham, MI 48009
