One of the most popular recreational drugs in the United States, marijuana is commonly thought these days to be harmless. However, while the stories from the “Reefer Madness” days may have been overblown, weed still has lots of downsides and risks. In this article, we’ll go over the many benefits of quitting weed and explain how a recovery center can help with substance abuse treatment.
What Is Marijuana?
Marijuana, also known as cannabis, is a mind-altering drug derived from the cannabis plant. Two primary chemicals give marijuana its effects:
- Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) – The main psychoactive component responsible for the “high” sensation.
- Cannabidiol (CBD) – Non-psychoactive, known for its potential therapeutic benefits, such as reducing anxiety and inflammation.
There are three species of this plant: sativa, indica, and ruderalis. The first two constitute the two primary strains of marijuana commonly consumed to get high; ruderalis’s THC content is too low for this.
Marijuana is typically smoked, but it can also be consumed in the form of edibles such as “weed gummies.”
Despite its widespread use and legalization in many areas for both medicinal and recreational purposes, marijuana remains a controversial substance. While some marijuana users report benefits such as relaxation and pain relief from marijuana smoke, the benefits of quitting weed, such as improved mental clarity and physical health, ultimately outweigh these temporary boons.
How Many People Use Marijuana?
Marijuana is one of the most commonly used substances in the United States, especially among young individuals. In 2021, 35.4% of persons aged 18 to 25 (11.8 million) reported consuming marijuana during the last year.
Marijuana Nicknames and Street Names
Marijuana has a wide range of nicknames and street names that vary by region and culture. Here are some of the most common ones:
General Nicknames for Marijuana:
- Weed
- Pot
- Grass
- Ganja
- Herb
- Bud
- Mary Jane (MJ)
- Dope
- Reefer
- Chronic
- Hydro (“Dro”) – A particularly potent strain of weed grown hydroponically. Known for higher THC content.
- Skunk
- Acapulco Gold
- Black Russian
- Blue Dream
- Creeper
- Devil’s Lettuce
- Endo
- Green
- Kush
- Loud – Refers to marijuana with a strong smell.
- Purple Haze
- Red Hair
- Shatter – A concentrated form of cannabis.
These nicknames and street names often evolve, with new terms emerging regularly within different subcultures and regions.
Is Marijuana Addictive?
This is a complex topic. While weed is typically thought to carry no physical addiction, current research indicates this is a myth.
According to the Yale School of Medicine, about 10% of people who regularly use marijuana will become addicted, and roughly 30% of users currently meet the criteria for addiction.
Anecdotal reports also indicate physical addiction. People who have tried quitting weed after long-time regular use have reported symptoms such as:
- Panic attack-like symptoms like chest tightness or racing heart rate
- Loss of appetite
- Anxiety
- Tingling sensations (something also reported during panic attacks)
- Muscle aches
- Nausea
- Shaking
There are also psychological aspects to marijuana addiction, such as:
- Restlessness
- Irritability
- Depression
- Aggression
- Lack of motivation
If you are quitting marijuana and experience these negative effects and symptoms, you should take comfort in the fact that they generally subside in a few days. Once these symptoms pass – and they will – you’ll experience the many benefits of quitting weed. You can stop smoking weed; we can help.
Get confidential help from our addiction treatment specialists in Orange County. Call to join our rehab program today!
Call 866-881-1184What Is Marijuana Dependence?
Marijuana dependence refers to a condition in which a person experiences weed withdrawal symptoms and cravings when not using marijuana. It is characterized by the need to use the substance to feel normal or to avoid withdrawal symptoms. This dependence can make quitting weed difficult, but there are addiction treatments available.
Dependence can develop with regular use over time, and it can be both physical and psychological.
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders lays out the following criteria for dependence:
- Tolerance – requiring more of the substance to get the same effects or experiencing a reduced impact with the same amount of the substance. Individuals who use cannabis heavily are often unaware that they have developed tolerance.
- Marijuana withdrawal symptoms when trying to quit weed
- Continued use despite bad effects: a person continues to use after injuring someone or oneself, experiencing suicide ideation, interpersonal troubles, and other usage-related issues.
- Foregoing social, occupational, or recreational activities due to marijuana addiction. Because of the gradual nature of these symptoms, the user is unaware of the changes despite other people’s observations and worries. As a person’s cannabis usage rises, they gradually modify their social circle and activities to include others who use the same amount, if not more. This tends to normalize use for the individual despite the increased requirement.
- The individual may discontinue family activities and interests in order to use the substance privately or spend more time with substance-using buddies. Despite acknowledging the role of the substance in leading to a psychological or physical disorder, the individual continues to use it.
- Cannabis is used in higher quantities or for longer periods of time than anticipated.
- There is a persistent desire to reduce or regulate substance usage, but the person is unable to follow through on it.
All of these criteria can be seen in someone who uses marijuana on a regular basis. If you are considering quitting marijuana but find yourself unable to do so, please seek a marijuana detox.
Signs Someone Is Dependent on Marijuana
Recognizing the signs of marijuana dependence can help identify when someone may need support or treatment.
Here are some common signs that someone may have a marijuana addiction:
- Using marijuana more often than intended, including daily or multiple times a day.
- Inability to quit weed or cut down on usage
- Spending a significant amount of time obtaining, using, or recovering from marijuana.
- Failing to fulfill obligations at work, school, or home due to marijuana use.
- Decreased participation in activities or hobbies that were once enjoyable.
- Using marijuana in situations where it is physically dangerous, such as driving.
- Withdrawing from friends and family, especially those who do not use marijuana.
- Conflicts or problems in personal relationships related to marijuana use.
- Encounters with law enforcement due to marijuana possession or use.
- Reduced productivity or poor performance at work or school.
- Frequently missing work or school due to marijuana use or its aftereffects.
Recognizing these signs can help identify marijuana dependence in oneself or others. If dependence is suspected, seeking support from healthcare professionals, therapists, or support groups can provide the necessary guidance to help them quit weed for good.
If you know someone who suffers from marijuana addiction, try explaining to them the benefits of quitting weed, which we will lay out below.
What are the Benefits of Quitting Weed?
Quitting marijuana brings a myriad of mental and physical benefits.
Here are some things to look forward to when you quit:
1) Personal Growth
Marijuana is popularly associated with low achievement for a reason. Many who smoke it report feeling a lack of motivation. They find it hard to show up to work, perform their jobs well, or even do things as simple as keeping their apartments clean or taking out the garbage. It also doesn’t help that the subculture surrounding marijuana (“stoner culture”) is similarly associated with a lack of achievement. Quitting weed means transcending this: leaving behind something that’s both a crutch and an albatross and hopefully moving on to greater things.
2) Better Mental Health
One of the greatest benefits of quitting weed is how much your mental health will improve. People often resort to weed to cope with pre-existing anxiety or depression issues (this is known as “self-medication”). While marijuana can bring temporary relief, it can exacerbate these issues in the long run. People who are addicted to marijuana frequently experience anxiety and paranoia. These can make it difficult to operate with emotional stability in everyday situations.
Quitting marijuana can enhance general mental health and alleviate symptoms of anxiety and despair. People who quit will be able to think more clearly, make better judgments, and feel more emotionally stable.
3) You Could Lose Weight
Marijuana is well known to spike a person’s appetite, a phenomenon known as “the munchies.” People who smoke marijuana tend to eat more due to this spike in hunger, and the food is usually not the best: things like chips, fast food, ice cream, and other forms of junk food are not uncommon. When you quit weed, your appetite will stabilize, and you’ll also have a clearer state of mind to better consider your food choices.
4) Improved Emotional Well-Being
Improved emotional well-being may be one of the most rewarding aspects of quitting marijuana. Quitting weed can result in more constant and stable moods. Say goodbye to the extreme mood swings that are commonly associated with marijuana usage, and hello to a more balanced emotional state.
For many users, marijuana may become a coping mechanism. Quitting allows people to build healthier coping skills, which leads to higher self-esteem and genuine, long-term confidence.
Another lesser-known but significant advantage of quitting weed is the improvement of personal connections. Clearer communication and an emotionally open presence can lead to more rewarding relationships.
5) You’ll Save More Money
Quitting weed can also save a significant amount of money that would have otherwise been spent on the substance. These savings can then be allocated towards more productive and fulfilling pursuits, such as hobbies, travel, education, or building financial security. The financial benefits of quitting weed should not be overlooked, as they can contribute to an overall improvement in one’s quality of life and sense of personal empowerment.
Looking for quality substance abuse treatment that’s also affordable? South Coast accepts most major insurance providers. Get a free insurance benefits check now.
Check Your CoverageTips for Quitting Weed Long-Term
If you’re thinking about quitting marijuana but aren’t sure you can do it, here are some tips to make the process easier:
Lifestyle Changes
- Get Active: Endorphins released by exercise can provide a “natural high” that can compensate for any loss of euphoria you experience when quitting weed. Engage in regular physical activities such as jogging, cycling, yoga, or team sports.
- Find New Hobbies: Find other hobbies to occupy your time in place of marijuana. Activities like reading, painting, or learning a musical instrument can be fulfilling and keep you occupied while you quit smoking.
- Tapering: Try to taper or gradually reduce your marijuana dose week by week. Give yourself a deadline by when you’ll eventually quit weed entirely.
- Go Cold Turkey: Alternatively, you may find it easier to “rip the bandaid off” and just quit weed entirely. Some people find this ultimately easier than tapering. Just beware of
Avoiding Triggers
- Identify Triggers: Recognize the people, places, and situations that trigger your desire to use marijuana. Common triggers include certain social settings, stress, or boredom. Stay away from these triggers while you’re trying to quit weed.
- Create a Plan: Develop strategies to avoid or cope with these triggers. This might include avoiding certain social gatherings, practicing relaxation techniques, or finding alternative activities to manage stress.
- Change Your Environment: Make changes to your surroundings to reduce temptation. Remove any marijuana paraphernalia from your home and avoid places where you used to smoke. This will make quitting weed much easier.
- Practice Mindfulness: Techniques like meditation and deep breathing can help you stay present and manage cravings when they arise.
Marijuana Detox Programs
Marijuana detox programs can provide a structured environment and professional support to help individuals safely and effectively quit weed. These programs often include counseling, group therapy, and medication management to address the physical and psychological aspects of marijuana dependence.
By participating in a detox program, individuals can develop the coping skills and strategies necessary to maintain long-term sobriety. The structured routine, access to resources, and accountability provided by these programs can be invaluable in overcoming the challenges of quitting marijuana and preventing relapse.
Recovery Support Groups
There are groups out there specifically set up to explain the benefits of quitting weed and make it easier to quit:
- Marijuana Anonymous: Marijuana Anonymous follows a 12-step program similar to Alcoholics Anonymous but specifically tailored for those who want to quit smoking marijuana.
- The Weedless Society: The Weedless Society is an online support group specifically for individuals wanting to quit marijuana.
Aside from these marijuana-specific groups, there are also groups that are more broadly focused but which can still be helpful, like SMART Recovery and others.
Marijuana Treatment Near Me
If you or a loved one are seeking treatment for cannabis use disorder, South Coast Behavioral Health is here to help. The first step in treating marijuana addiction is a medical detox. This means detoxing in a safe and professional setting, aided by experts. Then comes behavioral therapy, which is one of the most effective treatments available for drug addiction.
If you are wondering how long quitting weed takes or have other questions about what happens when you smoke weed, call us at 866-881-1184 or contact us here. Our highly qualified staff will be happy to assist you.
- Cannabis/Marijuana Use Disorder > Fact Sheets > Yale Medicine
- Exhibit 2-6, DSM-IV-TR Criteria for Substance Abuse and Substance Dependence – Managing Chronic Pain in Adults With or in Recovery From Substance Use Disorders – NCBI Bookshelf (nih.gov)
- Cannabis (Marijuana) DrugFacts | National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) (nih.gov)
