Since 2015, OARS has worked mostly with patients who have an opioid use disorder. Through our experience we’ve have learned that many of our patients develop a co-dependence to other substance use disorders as well.
In 2018, more than 11.8 million young adults used marijuana in the past year.
Marijuana is the most commonly used psychotropic drug in the United States, after alcohol. It is the dried leaves, flowers, stems, and seeds from the Cannabis sativa or Cannabis indica plant. The plant contains the mind-altering chemical THC and other similar compounds.
Marijuana use can lead to the development of a substance use disorder. Research suggests that between 9 and 30 percent of those who use marijuana may develop some degree of marijuana use disorder.
In the short-term, cannabis use disorder can result in:
- Altered senses
- Altered sense of time
- Changes in mood
- Impaired body movement
- Difficulty with thinking and problem-solving
- Impaired memory
- Hallucinations
- Delusions
- Psychosis
In the long-term, abuse of cannabis can result in:
- Impaired brain development
- Impaired thinking
- Impaired memory
- Impaired learning functions
- Temporary hallucinations
- Temporary paranoia
If you think your loved one has a dependency on cannabis, look for signs such as breathing problems, increased heart rate, and intense nausea and vomiting.
Treatment for dependency on cannabis, which OARS now treats, includes:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy – CBT focuses on learning new and drug-free ways to cope with stress in life. It relies on recognizing reactions to environmental or emotional cues, stopping the negative impulsive response, and adapting with a healthy alternative.
- Off-label treatment in addition to the above approved treatment.
If you have any questions about our treatment options or want to learn more about getting into treatment at OARS, call us at 724-912-6277. We’re here to answer any questions you have to get help for you or your loved ones.