Marijuana Addiction and Abuse in Austin

Marijuana, derived from the cannabis plant, is a widely used psychoactive substance and the most popular illicit drug in Texas and across the United States. It goes by many names, including cannabis, weed, pot, grass, and Mary Jane.

Unfortunately, as many as 30% of marijuana users may eventually develop a marijuana use disorder, with adolescents being up to seven times more likely to develop such a disorder compared to those who start using marijuana later in life. Overall, about 10% of marijuana users are at risk of addiction.

Is Marijuana Legal in Texas?

In Texas, marijuana legality hinges on various factors, including medical prescription. While medical marijuana is legal in certain situations, recreational marijuana remains illegal.

Medical Marijuana in Texas

Despite federal regulations against marijuana, Texas authorized marijuana usage for specific medical conditions in 2014. As of 2022, qualifying medical conditions for marijuana prescription include:

Cancer

Epilepsy

Glaucoma

HIV/AIDS

Post-traumatic stress disorder

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

Crohn’s disease

Parkinson’s disease

Multiple sclerosis

Similar conditions or those within the same class

Terminal illness

Chronic pain associated with qualifying medical conditions

As of January 2022, over 660,000 Texans hold a medical marijuana registration card, and more than 2,800 doctors in the state can prescribe marijuana. Texas hosts nearly 400 medical marijuana dispensaries.

Recreational Marijuana in Texas

The recreational use of marijuana remains illegal in Texas, encompassing substances like hashish derived from cannabis resin and the possession of marijuana-related paraphernalia.

Possession of Marijuana in Texas

Depending on the context, possessing recreational marijuana in Texas can lead to misdemeanor or felony charges. For instance, possessing 20 grams or less of marijuana constitutes a misdemeanor punishable by a maximum one-year jail term and a $1,000 fine. Possessing amounts exceeding 20 grams escalates to felony charges with varying penalties, including mandatory minimum prison sentences for large amounts.

Is Marijuana Addictive?

Marijuana is not only addictive but ranks as the third most commonly abused substance in the United States after alcohol and tobacco.

A marijuana use disorder may involve dependence or addiction, characterized by the brain’s adaptation to marijuana’s effects on the endocannabinoid neurotransmitter system. This adaptation leads to withdrawal symptoms upon discontinuation, indicating the brain’s reliance on marijuana for normal functioning.

Individuals with a marijuana use disorder often use the drug compulsively, leading to disruptions in daily life despite negative consequences.

Is Marijuana a Gateway Drug?

Debates persist regarding marijuana as a gateway drug. While most marijuana users do not progress to using other substances, studies suggest that those who do often start with marijuana, alcohol, or tobacco. Early exposure to marijuana may predispose individuals to other substance addictions.

Symptoms of Marijuana Addiction

Individuals developing a marijuana use disorder often exhibit addiction symptoms, including:

Compulsive marijuana use despite a desire to quit

Devoting significant time and resources to obtain or use marijuana

Facing legal or financial issues due to marijuana use

Prioritizing marijuana over responsibilities and areas of life

Marijuana Side Effects

Marijuana usage can result in physical and psychological side effects, varying from person to person. The potency of marijuana can also influence side effects, with some strains containing high levels of THC, the main psychoactive component.

Physical side effects of marijuana include:

Dizziness

Nausea

Increased heart rate

Blood pressure changes

Dry mouth

Coordination issues

Increased appetite

Psychological side effects may include:

Euphoria

Relaxation

Altered sensory perception

Distorted time perception

Impaired judgment

Emotional fluctuations

Memory impairment

Long-term marijuana use may lead to health complications such as lung problems and exacerbation of mental health conditions.

Marijuana Withdrawal

Withdrawal symptoms may occur in individuals with marijuana dependence upon discontinuation. About a third of regular marijuana users may experience withdrawal symptoms.

Withdrawal symptoms may include:

Abdominal pain

Shakiness

Sweating

Irritability

Anxiety

Depression

Appetite changes

Insomnia

Withdrawal duration typically lasts 1–2 weeks, with some symptoms persisting for up to a month.

Marijuana Detox and Treatment

Intensive medical support may be necessary for individuals with predicted severe withdrawal symptoms or previous relapses. Inpatient detox provides a supervised environment for marijuana cessation and prepares individuals for ongoing rehab programs.

Rehabilitation for marijuana addiction involves therapy, counseling, and motivational interventions. Inpatient and outpatient rehab programs offer tailored approaches to address addiction’s underlying causes and equip individuals with coping mechanisms for a drug-free life.

Hyperion Recovery offers comprehensive addiction recovery services to assist individuals in overcoming marijuana addiction. Contact us today to begin your journey toward recovery.