Marijuana, or weed, is one of the most widely used substances. It can be used for medicinal purposes, including alleviating anxiety, treating migraines and seizures, and managing nausea and vomiting. Many also use the drug recreationally. Because it is such a popular substance and can be used as a medical treatment, people are often not as aware of the dangers associated with weed. Individuals associate weed with getting high, feeling relaxed, or partying. However, like with any substance, weed misuse and abuse can have significant consequences for your health and well-being.
If you are struggling with an addiction to weed, do not be afraid to reach out for help. Trying to quit on your own will often be unsuccessful and lead to a miserable cycle of substance abuse and relapse. At BlueCrest Health Group, we believe in treating the whole person. Each individual in our care receives the support they need to heal their mind, body, and spirit. To learn more about our many substance abuse treatment programs, contact our team at 888.340.2214 or online.
Is Weed a Depressant?
A depressant is a substance that slows or depresses the central nervous system, which includes your brain and spinal cord. They typically result in feelings of calmness, relaxation, or fatigue. Alcohol is one of the most well-known and misused depressants. Now, is weed a depressant? The answer is not that simple, as weed is a more complicated substance. Weed has both depressant and stimulant properties. Stimulants also impact the central nervous system but speed things up rather than slowing them down. When someone uses a stimulant, it can lead to improved concentration, feelings of alertness, jitters, and anxiety. Weed can cause both depressant and stimulant effects and is classified as a psychoactive drug with hallucinogen effects by The National Institute on Drug Abuse and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
As a psychoactive drug, weed changes a person’s brain function. Weed is a mind-altering substance that can impact someone’s perception, consciousness, mood, awareness, behavior, and cognitive function. Despite potential harmful consequences, psychoactive drugs like weed are rewarding and reinforce the desire to get high and drug-seeking behaviors. This can lead to struggles with substance abuse and addiction.
Understanding the Dangers of Weed
While weed can be a useful form of treatment, it is important to remember that substance abuse of any kind is dangerous. Despite its reputation as a relaxing party drug or medication, weed abuse can significantly affect your health. Chronic weed abuse can lead to problems with attention, decision-making, coordination, and memory. Recognizing the signs of substance abuse can ensure you or a loved one gets proper help and support.
Some of the signs of weed addiction are:
- Craving weed
- Using more of the drug than intended
- Continuing to use it despite problems with relationships or work
- Using weed in high-risk situations
- Continuing to use despite physical or psychological side effects
- Trying to quit but failing
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when you limit or stop use
Identifying these signs of addiction is critical for getting the help you need and reclaiming your life. A lot of people may not see weed as a dangerous substance that can lead to addiction. However, the reality is that, like with any drug, a person can find themselves abusing weed and becoming addicted.
Start Substance Abuse Treatment at BlueCrest Health Group Today
For those dealing with weed addiction, our team can help you. Recovery is not easy, but with professional care and support, you or a loved one can overcome substance abuse. We provide various addiction and therapy programs that guide individuals on their journey toward lasting recovery. To take the first steps forward to a new life, call BlueCrest Health Group at 888.340.2214 or fill out our online contact form.