With all of the reports of medical marijuana use and the decriminalization of marijuana in many places, it can be easy to forget that marijuana abuse continues to be a real problem in our society. Use of marijuana sends more people to the emergency room in the United States than any other illicit drug except cocaine. Hundreds of thousands of people seek to get sober every year through addiction recovery programs because of the problems that marijuana use creates in their lives. Clearly, the abuse of marijuana is nothing to take lightly, and it is important to know the facts so you can be ready to help someone caught up in an addiction to weed.

Factors That Increase the Risk of Marijuana Abuse

Because marijuana is a highly addictive substance, simply using the drug can put anyone at risk for abuse and addiction. Yet certain factors do put individuals at a greater risk of developing an addiction and abusing marijuana than those whose lives are not characterized by these factors. Having a psychiatric disorder, for example, makes it more likely that a marijuana user will come to abuse the drug. Anyone with a family history of addiction should not be surprised when signs and symptoms of marijuana abuse show up in their life. After all, the propensity to become addicted to drugs and other substances seems to have a genetic component. Also, those whose families are not very involved in their lives are more likely to abuse marijuana than those whose families are involved.

Indications of Marijuana Abuse

If you or a loved one has used marijuana, abuse of the drug is a real risk. If you exhibit the following marijuana abuse symptoms, then you will want to look into addiction counseling to find out from a professional if you have a problem:

• Memory loss
• Poor concentration
• Spending all disposable income on marijuana
• Inability to stop thinking about marijuana or getting high
• Increased appetite
• Decreased coordination

Speak with a counselor about these signs of marijuana abuse: That is the first step toward getting the help that is best for you.

Abusing Marijuana No More

Stopping marijuana abuse usually requires help from highly trained professionals who specialize in working with addicts and abusers. With the assistance of Better Addiction Care, many marijuana abusers have found quality inpatient treatment and alternative rehab programs that can make a real difference. Our network is accepting new patients, and we can help you navigate your private insurance so that you can get cost-effective care. If you or someone you know is experiencing the signs and symptoms of marijuana abuse, contacting us today can be the first step toward full recovery.