What is Cannabis?
Cannabis, or marijuana is derived from the hemp plant (Cannabis Sativa) and is the most widely used illegal drug. The proactive chemical (THC) affects the brain and is what gives users a ‘high’. It is the effects of this chemical that can lead to users developing a cannabis habit or cannabis addiction.
Cannabis comes in three different forms: marijuana, hashish and hash oil. Marijuana is usually smoked, either in the form of a ‘joint’ or ‘spliff’ (hand rolled cigarette) or through a pipe (bong). Hashish can also be smoked, but is also mixed with certain foods, most commonly in the form of a cake. Hashish is usually smoked through a plastic pipe or joint; it too can also be added to food. |
 |
What are the Immediate Effects of Cannabis Use?
Effects of cannabis can last for up to 3 hours and usually causes drowsiness, the distortion of time and space, a feeling of relaxation, increased talkativeness and appetite, and decreased concentration and coordination. Larger doses or stronger forms of the drug can produce effects such as anxiety or panic, hallucinations, restlessness, nausea and paranoia.
What are the Long-term Effects of Cannabis Use?
Long-term use of the drug can lead to memory loss and learning difficulties, risk of asthma, cancer of the lungs and mouth, depression of the immune system, resulting in an increased risk of infection. Cannabis can also cause serious mental illness such as schizophrenia, and can also worsen existing psychotic symptoms. Heavy or regular users have also been known to experience psychotic episodes which can last for a number of days. These often consist of hallucinations, either visual or aural related.
What are the Treatment Options for Cannabis Addiction?
First4Rehab offers a range of treatment options for cannabis addiction, the most common being a residential rehab programme at a drug and alcohol detox clinic. We recommend a minimum stay of four to six weeks; dependent on the individual’s personal circumstances (some people will need a longer-term programme, usually over a period of three to six months).
For further information regarding cannabis addiction treatment programmes, please feel free to contact one of our First4Rehab advisors; we are available on 0845 555 8822, 07875 154177 or 0044 (0) 20 7193 4906. Alternatively you can email us at advice@first4rehab.com
|
