Marijuana

Though there have been many debates about the addictive qualities of marijuana, whether it should be legal or not and the affects it has on individuals, the fact is, marijuana is a drug and it is illegal in most states. Like any drug, whether it be legal or not, it affects the user and can cause difficulties when used.  

For the full Alcohol and Drug policy of Husson, scroll down to files. 

Definitions

The following information was taken from The National Institute on Drug Abuse, Healthline, and the World Health Organization.

• Abuse: a pattern of use that results in harm to one’s health, interpersonal relationships, or ability to work. Cannabis abuse can manifest itself via the following:

  • • Failure to fulfill major responsibilities at work, school, or home.

    • Memory problems

    • Difficulty solving problems

    • Decreased coordination 

    • Decreased concentration/focus

    • Legal problems related to cannabis use, such as being arrested for being intoxicated while driving or being caught with the substance

    • Continued use despite ongoing relationship problems that are caused or worsened by use.

    • Long-term cannabis abuse can turn into dependence.

• Dependence/addiction: a chronic disease. The signs and symptoms of dependence include:

  • • Continued use despite repeated physical, psychological, or interpersonal problems.

    • Have to use more in order to get the desired affect

    • Withdrawal symptoms when use has been put off, limited or stopped. These include

      • • nausea

          • tremors

        • anxiety

          • weight loss

        • insomnia

          • irritability

          • depression

          • restlessness

Identifying a Problem

Often times we may not see our behaviors as problematic.  Others may identify that there is a problem before we do.  This can leave people feeling at odds with others, isolated, and just plain angry.  Below are some signs that you or someone else may have a problem.

- Experiencing problems in relationships that don't seem to get resolved

- Difficulty attending classes, getting work done, staying awake or focused in classes

- Social interactions decrease, some friends don't want to be around you if you are high or activity with friends is limited to getting high

- Increased anxiety

- Focus of your day is about when you will use next

- It's difficult to go a day without using cannabis

- Sleep is difficult without using

- You experience any of the withdrawal symptoms noted above

- You've been arrested, kicked out of housing, fined or jailed due to using, or possession

What to do if You've Identified a Problem

The first step is coming to terms with the idea that there may be a problem.  If this has happened, coming into the counseling center is a good second step. One of the counselors can help you explore the idea more and come up with a plan that is appropriate for you, your goals, your needs and your values.  The process is different for everyone and is truly based on your goals. 

If the counseling center doesn't feel like an option for you, there are other avenues to take but ultimately having someone in your corner, supporting your plan, whatever it is, should be a priority.  Though some people can make changes without much support, the majority of us need help to follow through on making some of these changes. 

You can also look at the links and articles below for more ideas about how to best make the changes you want to make. 

Resources

National Institute on Drug Abuse: Drug Facts, Marijuana

http://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/drugfacts/marijuana

Medicinenet.com

http://www.medicinenet.com/marijuana/article.htm

Science Daily

Brain Changes Associated with Casual Marijuana Use in Young Adults Study Says