The above chart shows that although high school seniors most often use alcohol, marijuana is also a problem, coming in second. The issue of marijuana addiction has been a national problem for years. Additionally, marijuana (cannabis) has been present for centuries; the plant has been used to produce rope, thread, and clothes. It has also been smoked for medicinal reasons. Estimates show that close to 5 million Americans use marijuana regularly. Furthermore, surveys from the last 2 decades show that marijuana use among school and college students has greatly increased. Marijuana is often used as a means of experimentation for these age groups, and often leads to these users indulging in alcohol and illegal drugs besides marijuana.

Marijuana is derived from the hemp plant’s dried leaves and flowers. Depending on how the marijuana is prepared, the potency varies, with ganja and hashish being three to five times more powerful than marijuana. The most common method of using marijuana is smoking, which oftentimes causes marijuana addiction. However, some users digest it or mix it together with tea, coffee, or other beverages. Occasionally, some users may inject it. Studies show that the level of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) found in marijuana these days is much more potent than in the past 2 decades. Usually, the “high” of marijuana lasts for 2 to 3 hours.

When the user has an uncontrollable urge to obtain and use marijuana, an addiction develops. It is very difficult for the marijuana addict to stop using the drug, even if he desires to do so. The individual may even make excuses as to why she should continue using it. For example, she may say, life is stressful, and she needs marijuana to keep her sane. This type of addiction affects millions of individual each year.

Treatment facilities for marijuana addiction have doubled over time, and marijuana continues to get more potent over time; teens can obtain it easier than alcohol (which demands that they be 21 and older to purchase). An addiction to marijuana has the same nature as other addictive drugs–the user can’t stop thinking about the drug, wondering how he will get his next supply, and whether he’ll have the money to buy it. There is also the misconception that marijuana is not as harmful as other drugs, such as crack or heroin, therefore, it is okay to use it. However, since marijuana produces a resulting “high” after using it, it is strongly addictive, breeding negative effects. Oftentimes, the need for more “highs” ensues, one that only the user can stop.

Treatment facilities can help to provide treatment for individuals suffering from marijuana addiction; behavioral therapy is also sometimes included in the treatment program. If you or someone you know is suffering from an addiction to marijuana, contact a treatment facility (visit SAMHSA’s website) for help.

Drug Enforcement Agnecy (DEA) – http://www.usdoj.gov/dea/index.htm
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services (SAMHSA) – http://www.samhsa.gov/
National Institue of Health (NIH) – http://www.nih.gov/