Many people do not recognize that marijuana can be just as addictive as other drugs. Fortunately, there are a number of options for treating marijuana abuse and addiction. This article will explore several of the most effective treatments.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, which is used broadly across the spectrum of addictions, is a great way to provide users with alternatives for using. It focuses on teaching skills that will help the user in moments of temptation. For example, someone might learn to have a glass of water when a craving for marijuana strikes. Another method is Contingency Management. This gives users rewards for not using. For example, if someone continually tests negative for drugs use, then that person is given a voucher for something positive, such as a job opportunity. Motivational Enhancement Therapy is a third treatment option. This is designed to elicit a desire to change in the user. For example, a therapist may require a patient to think extensively about the damage that has been done to that user’s life due to drug use. When the patient verbalizes these damages, it spurs that patient in the direction of positive change.
It is often best to begin work with a therapist before going the pharmaceutical route. But sometimes, a patient’s symptoms point to depression and an antidepressant medication is called for. While no particular medication has been proven to help remedy marijuana addiction, there are a few that may help during the withdrawal process. These include Serzone and Prozac.
When the user is an adolescent, it is often necessary to conduct some family therapy. Because the teenager is still living within the original family unit, the other family members must also learn to handle the addiction of their family member. A good therapist who offers multidimensional and multisystemic therapy will be able to help family members learn to discourage the adolescent’s marijuana use.
As with any kind of addiction, there is hope for those who are addicted to marijuana. There is a warm, bright light at the end of the tunnel, and there are plenty of resources available to help along the journey. Follow us to learn more about treatment options.
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