It is not always easy to see when smoking marijuana has crossed the line from moderate or social use to addiction. Today, it is especially difficult because of the growing wave of marijuana legalization and support for medical cannabis. If you are wondering whether or not your recreational use has morphed into an addiction, take some time to answer the following questions:

The following yes/no questions will help you recognize whether you are addicted to weed or not.

1. Do you smoke marijuana without needing a specific reason (i.e. fun, social reasons)? 
2. Do you smoke marijuana when you wake up in the morning? 
3. Is your life structured around marijuana in a way that seriously affects your behavior, relationships and opportunities? (For instance, have you been late to work, lost your job, avoid going out, or leave parties early because of your weed habit?) 
4. Are you always worrying about where to find more weed? 
5. Do you often smoke alone? 
6. Do you use weed to avoid dealing with emotional issues, life problems, or responsibilities? 
7. Have you ever tried to quit smoking? 
8. Has your weed habit ever caused you memory problems or trouble with your concentration or motivation? 
9. Have your friends or family ever expressed their concern about your weed habit? 
10. Do you ever feel like you have to substitute your habit with other substances, such as alcohol when you run out? 

If more than 6 of your answers were ‘yes’ to the above questions, it is quite likely you have a weed addiction that is affecting your life. 

So, are you addicted?

If so, you are not alone. An estimated 4.2 million people in the United States have abused or are suffering from weed addiction. As much as 9% of people who try or use marijuana will become dependent at some point. Marijuana addiction is similar to other substance use disorders. This means that addiction treatment is effective at pinpointing and treating the underlying cause of addiction.

Addiction treatment is proven to work when self-attempts to detox and become sober have failed. Though it may be hard to admit you need help, this is one of the first steps to truly overcome your addiction. Because addiction rarely occurs in a vacuum, chances are a co-occurring mental disorder that also needs treatment may be present.

The only way to determine the right course of action for you is to seek professional help. If you need help with your marijuana addiction, we can pair you with a therapist who can help! Click here to learn more. 

www.moderntherapy.online