Cannabis / Marijuana Dependence and Withdrawal

Research has shown that people going through Cannabis withdrawal may experience physical and psychological symptoms after attempting to stop their prolonged marijuana use. Since the early 1960’s until recent times, cannabis was thought of as mild and non-addictive recreational drug in comparison with other ‘heavier’ drugs.

In the DSM-5 the APA has officially recognised that some cannabis users will go through altered states of mind when attempting to withdraw from cannabis us. The symptoms experienced can significantly impair normal daily function. As a result, doctors and mental health professionals can now effectively diagnose and identify those going through cannabis withdrawal.

The Effects of Cannabis

• Red Eyes
• Relaxed or sleepy state
• Excitement and Spontaneous laughter
• Dry Mouth
• Increased appetite
• Quiet and pensive mood
• Anxiety and paranoia
• Seeing and hearing things that aren’t there
• Low blood pressure
• Increased heart rate
• Slower reflexes
• Blurred vision
• Trouble concentrating

Cannabis Dependence

Studies show that people can become dependent on cannabis by taking it regularly in order to feel ‘normal’. To determine dependence the following symptoms will need to be present.

• The person needs more to experience the same effect from when they started using marijuana as they have become more tolerant or immune to its effects.
• Irritability, depressive symptoms and having trouble sleeping when trying to withdraw from using the drug.
• When a person uses more than they initially wanted to use.
• Constant attempts to quit or cut down but not having success.
• When obtaining and recovering from the effects of the drug takes up all of a person’s time.
• Favouring marijuana use over doing all other important activities.
• Using the drug even though it causes them significant problems.

Withdrawing from Cannabis use

According to a large number of regular cannabis users, withdrawal symptoms can make them relapse. However, not everyone who quits marijuana use will experience these symptoms.

• Sweating , tremors and chills
• Anxiety and depression
• Irritability, aggressive and angry behaviour
• Sleep difficulty & restlessness
• Cravings for cannabis
• High temp & Headache
• Heavy perspiration & Abdominal pain
• Nightmares and strange dreams

Going through these symptoms can be distressing as it can affect a person’s ability to carry out daily tasks such as concentrating, learning, studying or work. Regular and frequent use can also lead to financial problems and conflicts in relationships with their family and friends. When trying to give up cannabis use a person may be tempted to silence the cravings by using more of the drug, making the whole process of quitting a very difficult one.

What can I expect if I withdraw from using cannabis?

Your brain and your body will go through an adjustment period as it gets used to going without the substance. As a result you will encounter a range of symptoms. You may develop cravings that come and go. You will need to learn how to manage those. Talk to your GP if you’re finding it difficult to quit or to a local counsellor who will be able to teach you stress handling techniques to help you overcome anxiety while you’re trying to give up. You can prepare by writing down a list of the reasons why you would like to quit.

“We all make mistakes, but the people who thrive from their mistakes are the successful ones.” Henry Cloud

Recommended reading – ‘Taking a Closer Look At Addiction.’

Sources

Psych Central
Learn about Marijuana
Drug Info.
NCBI

Where to get help

Search for a counsellor near you
Men’s Line Australia – Talk it over with someone who understands – 1300 78 99 78
Lifeline – A free 24 hour Crisis Counselling service – 13 11 14
Kids Help Line – 1800 55 1800