I’m addicted to getting high on marijuana! Many view this statement as a lighthearted remark to express a toker’s love of the herb. This may be true in some cases, but there may be times when it’s a cry for help.
Can you get hooked on weed?
Yes, it’s possible, but not everyone reacts the same way. Any intoxicating substance has the potential to cause addiction, yet only a small percentage of marijuana users fall into this category.
So, how do you know if you’re addicted or just passionate about weed and cultivating outdoor and indoor seeds? Are there any signs of cannabis dependence?
Keep reading to discover the answers to these questions and more as we delve deeper into the topic below.
What makes cannabis addictive
Marijuana can be addictive for some people. The condition is called cannabis use disorder (CUD). And although it only affects a fraction of users, it’s something to be aware of if you’re an avid toker.
Experts don’t have a conclusive explanation why some users can enjoy it casually while others develop dependency problems.
So, why is weed so addictive? Some probable reasons include:
- Potency. Consistently indulging in powerful strains with high THC levels. The psychoactive effects of this compound make it a likely culprit behind addiction.
- Age. Exposing yourself to marijuana at an early age. Tokers who ingest weed when they’re young have a higher chance of cannabis dependence.
- Frequency. Tokers who enjoy cannabis daily or weekly have a higher risk of getting hooked.
- Company. If you typically light up in a social setting and share your joint with friends, you’re less likely to develop an addiction. Isolated users should check for signs of dependency.
- Genes. Having a family history of substance abuse may answer the question, ‘Why am I addicted to weed?’. The concept is still under investigation, but it does raise your risk.
- Prolonged self-medicating. Some users turn to marijuana to relieve the symptoms of certain mental and behavioural disorders without getting the all-clear from a doctor. This can lead them to become mentally addicted to weed.
It’s not clear what makes cannabis addictive, but awareness of the likely causes can help you identify an issue early.
Signs of cannabis addiction
While there’s nothing wrong with indulging in a toke or two to unwind, certain behaviors hint at substance abuse.
How do people get addicted to weed? By ignoring the signs. Some of these include:
- Displaying frustration and Irritation when you run out of marijuana
- Using cannabis takes priority over other activities
- You need larger doses or more potent strains to feel the same buzz
- You spend increased amounts of time thinking about using
- You spend large sums of money acquiring marijuana, regardless of the financial consequences
- You experience intense withdrawal symptoms when you don’t consume cannabis
If you’re exhibiting any of these, try limiting your consumption. Speak to a family member, friend, or health professional who can help you diagnose and overcome cannabis dependence and addiction.
Tips to avoid addiction
The easiest way to avoid addiction is by not consuming marijuana. But there are other ways to minimize your risk. Limit your usage to weekends or special occasions.
Since this toking isn’t habitual, you’re less likely to form a cannabis dependence. Don’t indulge in the substance if you need to drive or operate heavy machinery.
When presented with the option to take a toke, don’t always accept. Having the willpower to decline is an excellent sign that you can control your intake.
One last dose
Like many intoxicating substances, marijuana can be addictive. Although it’s rare, some users do abuse it. For many, cannabis offers a relaxing temporary escape from reality without negative consequences.
Most users don’t develop cannabis dependence. It’s important to look out for the signs and reach out for help if consuming marijuana affects your daily life.
If you’re a cannabis-lover, it doesn’t mean that you’re automatically at risk. Toke responsibly, and if you’re ready to take the next step, become a grower.
Jennifer Gallagher, an experienced cannabis grower at SeedSupreme Seedbank. During a seven-year career in the marijuana growing business, Jennifer has gained a high competence in this field.