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Description
Navigate the complex world of addiction with AddictionGroup's Podcast, hosted by Anna. Tackling the pressing questions and pervasive issues surrounding addiction, we aim to serve as a beacon of guidance and insight for those in search of answers. Join us on a journey toward understanding, as we delve into expert insights, share personal stories, and provide a compassionate space where curiosity meets compassion. Whether you're personally affected, concerned for a loved one, or simply seeking knowledge, immerse yourself in candid conversations designed to enlighten and empower. Together, let’s foster a supportive community and pave the way towards healing and awareness.
Show Notes
Marijuana is widely used, but not everyone might be familiar with what it actually is, right? Absolutely. Marijuana is a psychoactive drug that comes from the cannabis plant. There are different strains, like Cannabis Sativa, Indica, and Ruderalis, and it goes by many names — weed, pot, dope, ganja, to name a few. And how is it typically consumed? People smoke it in various forms — joints, pipes, bongs. But it's also ingested in foods, known as edibles, or brewed like tea. With all these names and forms, there's often confusion about whether cannabis is the same as marijuana. Can you clarify that? Sure thing. While they're often used interchangeably, cannabis generally refers to the plant and products like hashish and hash oil. Marijuana specifically means the drug consisting of dried parts of the plant. Got it. Now, marijuana is mainly associated with its recreational use, right? That's correct. Recreational users might enjoy its relaxing effects or the feelings of happiness it can bring without feeling the need to use it compulsively. And what about medical marijuana? How does that play into this? Well, besides THC, which causes the high, marijuana contains other cannabinoids like CBD, which can have medical applications. It's been used to aid in chemotherapy, treat chronic pain, and reduce muscle spasticity in multiple sclerosis patients, amongst other uses. But marijuana can also be misused, leading to addiction — is that where the problem lies? Absolutely. Although many can use it without issue, there is a risk of addiction, especially for those who start using it at a young age. What sort of symptoms might indicate someone is struggling with marijuana addiction? The symptoms can vary, but generally, if someone's unable to quit despite negative effects on their life, has intense cravings, or has developed a tolerance needing more of the drug to feel the same effects, those are red flags. This might be a tough one, but is marijuana addictive? There's a lot of debate around this. It is a bit of a contentious topic, Anna. But the answer is yes; marijuana has addictive properties, and some people may need professional treatment to address their addiction. That makes sense. Now what about the health risks — what should people be aware of? Smoking marijuana can impact your lungs like cigarettes do. Prolonged, excessive use can also have repercussions for mental health, potentially leading to issues like depression or anxiety. Given all of this, when does marijuana use warrant an intervention? When you start seeing some of the addiction symptoms I mentioned earlier or if the users themselves express a desire to quit but find they can't do it on their own, that's generally a good time to consider intervention. Now, if someone does decide they need help, can they go to rehab for marijuana? Absolutely, Anna. There's inpatient and outpatient rehab, and while the best approach varies from person to person, there are options available to fit individual needs and situations. Can you briefly describe the difference between inpatient and outpatient treatment? Sure. Inpatient treatment is immersive; the patient stays at a facility for a structured, intensive program with 24-hour support. Outpatient, on the other hand, allows the patient to maintain parts of their regular life while attending treatment programs during the day or evening. It sounds like recovery from marijuana addiction is an ongoing process. What about after rehab? Recovery doesn't end with rehab. Behavior therapy, support groups like Marijuana Anonymous, and even sober living facilities are part of the ongoing journey to stay addiction-free. Lastly, for those seeking help, how can they find a good marijuana treatment program? Reaching out to SAMHSA’s helpline or using their treatment locator online is a great start. Additionally, speaking with therapists or counselors can be very helpful in finding the right care. And what about financial concerns? Can people afford these treatments? Many marijuana rehab programs accept medical insurance, but for those without it, most facilities try to accommodate with payment plans or sliding scale fees.