JastaPlace Drug Rehab

Marijuana is the most commonly used illicit drug in the United States. According to the 2001 National Household Survey on Drug Abuse (NHSDA) it is a widespread problem among teenagers and those in their twenties. The survey showed that 37 percent of American citizens aged twelve years and up have experimented with marijuana at least once in their lives.

Using this drug over a long period of time can lead to marijuana addiction. An addiction to this drug would show itself in terms of the person requiring the use of the drug on a consistent basis in order to function properly in their daily life. Marijuana addiction has set in if a user discovers that it interferes with his or her family life, performance at school or work, and social activities.

According to the same survey mentioned previously, an estimated 5.6 million Americans report a dependency on marijuana while more than two million individuals in 2001 met the diagnostic criteria for dependence on this drug. In 1999, approximately 220,000 individuals who began drug addiction treatment programs revealed that marijuana was their number one drug of choice.

Cravings for the drug can be very strong for those who suffer from marijuana addiction. The withdrawal symptoms that can accompany the cessation of the drug can make it very difficult for those who have been smoking the drug over an extended span of time to quit. Many individuals who attempt to stop abusing marijuana report that they experience anxiety, restlessness, depression, agitation and general irritability. Many also have a problem falling asleep at night.

There are drug addiction treatment plans for those who use marijuana as their primary drug of choice, as well with in conjunction with other drugs, such as alcohol for example, or cocaine.