Marijuana Withdrawal Symptoms & Management
Marijuana, the most famous recreational drug has been declared legal in many places now, owing to its therapeutic properties. However, the addiction phenomenon from abuse of Marijuana is right in it’s place contributing to a considerable number of emergency room visits due to its side effects. Marijuana which is made from Cannabis plant contains a mood-altering substance THC and other similar compounds.
Marijuana/Cannabis is more famous and the preferred type of intake among young people as the high is almost instant. Marijuana can be smoked in hand-rolled cigarettes, or in water pipes called bongs. It can also be smoked in empty cigarettes called blunts. The more times one smokes Marijuana, the more dependent he/she becomes on this supply of THC. An addict either suffers side effects or the withdrawal symptoms. In some cases, withdrawal affects can be so unmanageable that they relapse to reprieve.
There are widespread misconceptions that Marijuana is not addictive. The fact is that Marijuana can be addictive and if you stop using it, you may experience withdrawal symptoms that are hard to cope with. By the way smoking Marijuana just a handful of times doesn’t cause addiction. Addiction happens in people who use Marijuana for a long time i.e. at least once/twice a week either for recreational purposes or otherwise.
The NIDA says that up to 17% of children who use Marijuana in their teens may become dependent on that. By the time the user realises the negative impact Marijuana has in his/her life, a significant amount of damage would have already happened in the form of addiction. Though quitting Marijuana is not life threatening, it may prove highly uncomfortable for the user. Withdrawal symptoms may affect at least 30% of people who use Marijuana. Withdrawal symptoms may last up to two weeks.
If you are a person who smoked Marijuana quite often and in high doses, tapering off slowly by reducing your marijuana intake in times and portions may help you ease into a marijuana-free life. If you only smoked occasionally, you may be able to stop abruptly without any step-down.
Withdrawal Symptoms
- Mood Swings
- Irritability
- Restlessness
- Insomnia
- Cravings
- Decreased appetite and general discomfort.
- Management
Attend a Detox Program
A Medical Detox Program typically lasts for 5-10 days on an average and focuses on helping the addict manage withdrawal symptoms. A round the clock supervision and medical management are the critical amenities in a detox program. It is advisable for the addicts to attend a detox program to be able to manage the withdrawal symptoms.
Eat Nutritious
Diet plays a vital role in healing, both physically and emotionally. A balanced diet that is rich in proteins, vitamins and nutrients is essential for restoring healthy body and mind.
Exercise Daily
Exercise helps release endorphins and restores chemical balance in brain. Exercise increases self-esteem on account of a fit body and also helps to sleep better.
Stay Hydrated
As dehydration is the common effect of withdrawal, it is essential to keep your body hydrated by drinking lots of water. Hydrated body heals quickly and allows good sleep.
Get Help
Talk with a doctor or a substance abuse specialist If you’re ready to quit and discuss your options. You may not need any special treatment, but it’s always a good idea to consult a professional before making such decisions. The professionals at rehabs put you through the right kind of treatments to make sure you recover well. Also, they help manage the withdrawal symptoms with their professional expertise. This makes the journey to recovery much easier.
