Marijuana Drug Help
Marijuana is the most used illegal drug in the United States. Nearly 69 million
Americans over the age of 12 have tried marijuana at least once. Those who use
marijuana often times do not realize they are abusing the drug. This page will
provide you with information on how to help yourself or someone you care about
who has a problem with marijuana. Data has shown that people high on marijuana
show the same lack of coordination on standard "drunk driver" tests
as do people who have had to much to drink. The problem of marijuana use can
be remedied with knowledgeable help.
Anyone can develop a problem with marijuana. There is no known single characteristic
shared by everyone who abuses marijuana. An individual who uses marijuana can
be any age, profession, ethnic group or social class.
Marijuana is considered to be both mentally and emotionally addictive. Users
come to believe that they need it to function normally and have fun. This misconception
is very common among those who use marijuana on a daily basis. Many of these
habitual users find that they must be high to enjoy themselves and to feel normal,
even though marijuana itself is not physically addictive.
Getting help for a problem with marijuana is similar to that of any other drug.
Individuals who are attempting to quit using marijuana on their own need support
and understanding. Those who find that they are unable to quit using on their
own must find alternate methods to ending their problem with marijuana.
If you or someone you care about has a problem with marijuana and needs help
here are some important tips to keep in mind:
- Don't Rescue the Addict
Friends and family members can attempt to protect an addict from the consequences
of his behavior by making excuses about his addiction or getting him out of
trouble. This behavior must stop! Once the addict experiences the effects
of his behavior, he may become more motivated to stop using drugs.
- Don't Become an Enabler
Family members should be careful not to reward the addict by paying his bills,
bailing him out of jail, letting him stay for free or ignoring his behavior.
- Be Honest
Tell the addict that you are concerned about his marijuana addiction and want
to be supportive for him while he gets help. Support your concern with examples
of the ways in which his marijuana use has caused problems for you, including
any recent incidents.
- State the Consequences
Tell the addict that until he gets help, you will leave him to the consequences
of his behavior and will no longer bail him out. Make it clear that you are
not trying to punish the addict, but protect yourself from the harmful effects
of his addiction.
- Be Prepared
If the addict is ready get help, don't wait. Once he's agrees to get help,
work immediately to find the treatment approach that is right for the individual.
- Don't Give Up
If the addict refuses help, don't give up. Be supportive and don't enable
or allow his behavior. Listen whenever you can and be ready to help the addict
into treatment when he is ready.
- Find a treatment approach
The importance of locating a qualified treatment facility is important to
the addicts recovery. There are numerous types of treatment programs available,
find one that is right for the individual.
It is important that the individual receives help early on in their abuse.
Treatment is known to be more effective if conducted at the onset of the problem.
Treatment options include a wide range of approaches: education, counseling,
therapy, rehab, and groups. Our website will help you in your search for the
treatment approach that is right for you or someone you care about who has a
problem with marijuana.