There have been many shifts in society in the last couple of decades. One of the most controversial is the legalization and decriminalization of marijuana. Recreational substance use has been a topic of debate for many years. Now that 39 states have legalized medical use and 24 have legalized recreational use, society seems to have mostly made up its mind. However, that does not mean there aren’t nuances that must be analyzed or understood. An example of this is the rise in new ways to consume marijuana, one of those being in edible form.
Throughout this evolving landscape, certain methods of consumption have gained popularity, one of these being marijuana edibles. In conjunction with new ways to consume, it’s important to understand how these methods impact a person’s body, both in the short-term and long-term. In addition to this, the potency of these substances has only increased, and it’s for this reason that understanding them is even more crucial.
The potential for marijuana addiction, particularly due to its psychoactive effects, has long been a topic of debate. At Woodland Recovery Center, we are dedicated to offering support and guidance to help you or your loved ones determine if there is an addiction to marijuana edibles and navigate the path to recovery.
Are THC Gummies Addictive?
The main compound responsible for the psychoactive effects of marijuana is THC or tetrahydrocannabinol. THC is found in the marijuana plant and is known to produce various psychoactive effects depending on the dosage. Some of these include feelings of euphoria or increased levels of relaxation. In addition to this, hallucinations and distorted perception of time have been attributed to higher doses. This being said, THC itself is not an addictive compound, but that does not mean there is no risk of a dependency forming.
Although THC itself is not chemically addictive, the effects it produces can still be highly sought after. Its non-addictive nature may lead some to view it as a safe choice for recreational use or self-medication. However, such patterns of use can sometimes signal a dependency similar to those formed with other substances.
Using THC to regulate your sleep patterns or cope with social anxiety may indicate the emergence of a deeper issue. Although THC itself may not be addictive, many can seek after the effects ingesting it can bring. It can be easy to fall back on the non-addictive properties of THC and feel more comfortable consuming high quantities over time. This means that while physical withdrawals may not be present, the increased tolerance to and reliance on the substance can lead to other symptoms, such as irritability and increased anxiety, potentially leading those to seek out stronger substances.
Long-Term Effects of Edibles
While the negative effects of THC edibles may not be present immediately, that does not mean none will arise. There are long-term symptoms of persistent use that can cause other issues for those with a dependency on THC. A few of these symptoms include:
- Impaired memory or learning skills
- Attention span issues
- Anxiety and paranoia
- Mood swings
- Depression
- Digestive issues (Changes in appetite, nausea, gastrointestinal troubles)
- Dependence on THC for sleep
Learning safe habits while engaging in recreational usage can be crucial in managing safe consumption. The non-addictive nature of marijuana is not an excuse to use it irresponsibly. The risks that can be brought to the body may outweigh the initial issue being remedied. Being aware of your triggers and always understanding the importance of moderation can provide the building blocks needed to avoid developing a dependency.
Are CBD Edibles the Same as THC Gummies?
CBD edibles and THC gummies might look similar, but they’re totally different in how they work and what they do. CBD edibles are foods infused with cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis, which means they don’t get you “high.” THC gummies, on the other hand, contain tetrahydrocannabinol, the compound in cannabis responsible for the euphoric effect.
Here’s a breakdown of the key differences:
- Psychoactive effects – CBD edibles won’t make you feel high, while THC gummies will.
- Purpose – People often use CBD for relaxation, pain relief, or to reduce anxiety, while THC is typically consumed for its recreational, mood-altering effects.
- Legality – CBD products are legal in many areas, but THC products may have stricter regulations.
- Side effects – CBD is generally well-tolerated, while THC can cause effects like paranoia or dizziness in some people.
If you believe your marijuana use may be showing signs of addiction or want to quit use and have assistance with withdrawal, don’t hesitate to seek support from a professional who can guide you toward recovery.
Begin Your Journey to Recovery from Marijuana Addiction at Woodland Recovery Center Today
It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the availability of recreational substances and the challenge of finding balance. Not knowing much about their effects or properties can make things even harder. By building a basic understanding, you or your loved ones can navigate this world with more clarity and confidence.
Marijuana addiction is possible, and here at Woodland Recovery Center, we invest in your recovery. Our evidence-based treatment approaches are designed to help people overcome marijuana withdrawal symptoms to achieve long-term recovery. Call us at 662.222.2989 or contact us online to learn more about our programs and how we can help you or your loved ones on the path to recovery.
