From prescription drugs to illicit drugs, all psychoactive substances can affect the brain’s functioning. These drugs may change mood, awareness, thoughts, feelings, or behavior. Marijuana is no different in that it is a psychoactive drug that directly affects brain function. When the use of marijuana is excessive, it may lead to abuse, resulting in tolerance and addiction. At that point, we recommend marijuana addiction treatment.
Many people are confused about whether marijuana is dangerous and addictive. There are numerous misconceptions about the drug because it is now legal in many states and is perceived as a natural substance. If you have questions about cannabis and how it affects the brain, reach out to Pennsylvania Adult and Teen Challenge (PAATC) to get some answers. Our marijuana treatment programs have been treating marijuana abuse and addiction for teens and adults for decades and can help you. Though insurance rarely covers marijuana addiction unless it co-occurs with other substances, we will work with clients to make treatment affordable. Furthermore, if your addiction does co-occur with other substances, we can help. Call 844.442.8673 or fill out our online form to speak to a knowledgeable staff member.
The Difference Between Helpful and Harmful Brain Effects
In some cases, the brain effects of a psychoactive drug are medically necessary and increase wellness. This is the case when a medication treats major depression or diagnosed bipolar or other mental health disorder. In other cases, the brain effects result from someone seeking to get high. When the mind is suffering from a condition like depression or anxiety, medication realigns brain functioning. It adjusts brain chemicals to proper levels so the disorder can be resolved and you can operate from a healthy place.
The same brain chemicals are affected by drugs that you purchase on the street. In many cases, you take them without medical guidance, without knowing what is in them or how they will affect the user. Furthermore, because you use them to get high, they pose severe risks to brain health.
In cases of marijuana abuse, the brain is inundated with the drug, stops functioning on its own, and becomes dependent on the drug. This condition can lead to addiction and continued harmful brain effects. Marijuana addiction help is available in most states in rehab centers and addiction treatment programs.
How Marijuana Affects the Brain
The parts of the brain directly altered by THC are responsible for attention, decision-making, memory, learning, coordination, reaction time, and emotions. Some of the effects are long-term. However, the short-term effects will interfere with thinking processes, short-term memory, time perception, and the brain’s movement centers.
Because the brain is still developing until age 25, the damage of early use to long-term functioning is increased. Marijuana directly interferes with the brain’s processes, so many neurological experts consider marijuana to be neurotoxic for anyone under 25 and can result in:
- Reduced verbal scores
- Reduced overall IQ
- Memory deficiency
- Decreased cognitive functioning
Begin Recovery at Pennsylvania Adult and Teen Challenge
If you are looking for marijuana addiction programs in Pennsylvania, consider PAATC. We bring 60 years of experience and expertise in marijuana addiction treatment to you when you come to our marijuana treatment center. We offer behavioral therapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). These treatments are particularly beneficial in treating marijuana abuse and addiction. At PAATC, our experienced staff of clinical practitioners and support team members can provide effective, evidence-based treatments in both group and individual settings.
In addition, the inclusion of family members in family therapy is an excellent way to begin marijuana recovery. PAATC’s marijuana treatment center incorporates family therapy into treatment, as appropriate. Our treatment center also offers robust peer support opportunities, mindfulness practices, and supportive after-care programs to maximize positive outcomes. Reach out today to learn more. Call 844.442.8673 or fill out our online form.