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Marijuana Addiction Treatment and Rehab

Close up image of marijuana joint

Published: August 2, 2023

Marijuana has become an increasingly widely used substance across the United States. In many states, it is considered legal medically and/or recreationally. While it may be considered harmless by some, there is still the possibility of developing an addiction to or dependence on it.

If you or someone you love have a cannabis use disorder, there is help available for you. Treatment programs may be long-term or short-term, depending on the severity of the addiction.

For information about marijuana rehab, continue reading to learn:

  • What happens during rehab
  • What you can expect after rehab
  • Where to find treatment for marijuana
  • The cost of treatment

Do You Need Rehab for a Marijuana Addiction?

Anyone who has formed a severe addiction to marijuana needs rehab and could benefit from treatment.

Marijuana does not have the same serious and dangerous side effects that illicit drugs such as heroin and cocaine may have. However, it is still possible to become addicted to it and feel some withdrawal symptoms.

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, nearly 30% of people who use marijuana have cannabis use disorder. In 2015, four million people in the United States met the diagnostic criteria for marijuana use disorder.

Many people who have a dependency on or addiction to marijuana also have co-occurring disorders like depression and anxiety or another form of substance use disorder.

Signs of a Marijuana Addiction

If you feel you or someone you love may have an addiction to marijuana, there are signs that you can look for to be sure.

These are signs that you or someone you love may have a marijuana use disorder:

  • Bloodshot eyes
  • Increased appetite
  • Dry mouth
  • Impaired coordination
  • Impaired balance
  • Feeling tired and lethargic
  • Poor performance/attendance at work or school
  • Paranoia
  • Feeling “on edge” or nervous
  • Defensiveness
  • Agitation
  • Feelings of guilt
  • Reduced self-esteem
  • Mood swings
  • Lack of concern over physical appearance and hygiene

What Happens During Marijuana Rehab?

If you or a family member have a marijuana use disorder and are interested in seeking addiction treatment, you may be wondering what to expect in a rehab program.

There are many different options when it comes to treating substance use disorders. There are inpatient and outpatient treatment options, drug detoxification programs, group therapy, family therapy, aftercare programs, and more.

Drug Detoxification

In drug detoxification programs, patients are monitored by medical staff around the clock while their body gets rid of the drug. Doctors and nursing staff will routinely check the patient’s vitals, including blood pressure, heart rate, and temperature.

Doctors will take this time to complete a full medical examination of the patient. They will also diagnose any co-occurring disorders a patient may have.

During detoxification, doctors will gather a complete drug use history of the patient in order to create a personalized treatment program for them. This unique treatment plan will also determine the intensity level of the care you need.

Inpatient & Outpatient Programs

Once a person has completed a detox program, the next choice in their recovery will be whether they need inpatient or outpatient treatment. The level of intensity in care needed will help determine which is more appropriate.

Inpatient Programs

Inpatient treatment is considered to have the highest success rates due to the way they are designed. People in inpatient programs will have a structured day filled with individual therapy sessions, support groups, extracurricular activities, and more.

Inpatient treatment programs, also known as residential treatment programs, are for people who need intensive levels of care and frequent monitoring by medical staff. Studies have shown it is helpful to keep people away from outside addiction triggers while going through treatment.

Outpatient Programs

Outpatient programs are available for people who have successfully completed an inpatient treatment program or do not require intensive support.

The outpatient treatment program with the highest level of care is the partial hospitalization program. This program assists with any medication needs, and offers individual and group therapy, support groups, and more.

The next level down is the intensive outpatient treatment program, where people will participate in multiple group sessions a week, as well as continuing their individual therapy sessions. This level is followed by the lowest step-down level, general outpatient.

In general outpatient treatment, people will attend support groups once or twice a week, as well as their individual therapy sessions. This treatment program is meant to taper off over time when the person affected by the substance use disorder is ready.

Behavioral Therapy

When someone is addicted to a substance, there are often underlying mental health issues that are also affecting the person. When someone has a substance use disorder and also a mental health disorder, this is called a co-occurring diagnosis.

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) are the most commonly used behavioral therapies when treating mental health issues and drug addiction.

These therapy options are considered “talk therapy” and are used to help people change their behavior by first changing their thinking.

Alternative Therapies

Although inpatient and outpatient treatment programs have been proven to be the most successful, not everyone responds to or needs these types of treatment programs.

For people who are interested in alternative or holistic treatment methods, there are a few options available.

Alternative treatment methods can include:

  • Yoga
  • Tai Chi
  • Music therapy
  • Art therapy
  • Equine therapy
  • Adventure therapy

Aftercare Programs

Aftercare programs are for people with substance use disorders who may need a little extra help with sober living after completing inpatient and outpatient programs. Aftercare programs are designed to be used on an as-needed basis and do not offer intensive care.

Aftercare programs generally consist of self-help support groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA).

Other options for aftercare include seeking individual therapy, group and family therapy, support through sober apps, or alumni sober network groups through your rehab center to help you continue your recovery journey.

How Long Will Marijuana Rehab Last?

The amount of time rehab will take for a cannabis use disorder can vary depending on the severity and length of time the person has been addicted to cannabis and other substances.

In some cases, long-term inpatient treatment programs can last for over a year, but short-term programs are usually divided into 30-day, 60-day, and 90-day stays.

Due to their ability to be used as needed, outpatient and aftercare programs are not under the same time restrictions as inpatient treatment. They can be used for as long as the person needs extra support and care.

What to Expect After Marijuana Rehab

Recovery from cannabis use disorder can be a life-long journey. When you are in a marijuana addiction treatment center, you are constantly surrounded by medical staff and other professionals who are dedicated to ensuring you succeed in recovery.

With the help of your therapist and support group in outpatient treatment, you have learned to incorporate the new sober living skills you have learned into your everyday routine.

Once you have successfully graduated from inpatient or outpatient treatment, you may still need some support to continue on your sobriety journey.

Marijuana Anonymous

Many people have found that staying sober is much easier when they have support from family, friends, and people who understand the unique struggles they may be going through.

Marijuana Anonymous is a support group that follows a 12-step program like Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous. In these groups, you will find support and understanding from like-minded people

Continuing Care Services

Research has shown that people who take advantage of continuing care services are more likely to remain sober than those who do not. You have a great chance of living a successful sober life if you continue seeking support.

Continuing care is especially helpful for people who have a chemical dependency on marijuana, mental health issues, addictions to other illicit drugs, and more. This can come in different forms, such as individual, group, and family therapy.

Relapse Prevention After Marijuana Rehab

Once you have completed substance abuse treatment and have begun your new life, you will still face obstacles. The good news is that during your time in rehab, you will have learned new coping skills for living without marijuana.

Ways that you can help keep yourself from relapsing include:

  • Avoid the people, situations, and environments that may lead to relapsing.
  • Continue going to your therapy sessions.
  • Do not stop attending your support groups.
  • Learn how to manage your cravings.
  • Monitor yourself and report any health concerns immediately.

How Much Does Marijuana Rehab Cost?

The amount of marijuana addiction treatment you may need will depend on several factors, including your age, genetics, overall health, dependency level, and how long the addiction to marijuana has been present.

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, marijuana treatment programs can range anywhere from $2,200 to $32,000. Factors that affect this price can include how much treatment you are going to need, where you choose to receive treatment, and what insurance you have.

Substance abuse treatment is usually covered by most major insurance, at least partially. Most treatment facilities accept self-pay and offer payment assistance options such as paying on a sliding fee scale.

Does Rehab Cure Marijuana Addiction?

Addiction to cannabis is treatable but not curable. Addiction is similar to any other chronic illness, and you will need to continue to treat the addiction with therapy and other aftercare options in order to prevent a relapse.

Your case management team from your addiction treatment center can go over the different treatment options available to you. Recovery will be a life-long journey, but you will have access to the many tools available to you for your success.

Benefits of Marijuana Drug Rehab

If you are struggling with the effects of marijuana abuse, going into a cannabis addiction treatment program may be a good choice for you. There are many benefits to seeking treatment for a marijuana use disorder.

In a treatment program, you will learn how to rebuild your life. Rehab teaches you how to care for your mental and physical well-being, and how to handle situations without turning to marijuana to cope.

Although rehab cannot bring back missed time, it can help you rebuild and reconnect with your life, friends, and family.

How to Find Marijuana Rehab

When you are ready to seek treatment for your marijuana use disorder, you may not know where to begin. Important first places to look for treatment facilities in your state include most major hospital systems, VA centers, and other medical clinics and centers.

SAMHSA Treatment Locator

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has developed a database at Findtreatment.gov, where you can search anonymously and locate a substance use treatment center near you.

You can search for many criteria on the website to maximize your chance of finding the best treatment center for your needs.

State Treatment Centers

Each state in America has its own system of hospitals and substance abuse treatment facilities.

Find treatment near you by browsing our list of rehab centers by state below.

Find Marijuana Rehab Centers Today

If you or someone you love are ready to end your addiction to marijuana and cannabis products, it is important for you to know that you are not alone. Help is here for you when you are ready to take that first step.

When you are ready to begin your sober journey, call our helpline to contact our addiction specialists today. They will help you find an addiction treatment program in your area.

Marijuana Rehab FAQs

What is the most effective treatment for marijuana addiction?

The most effective treatment for marijuana addiction is the one that you stick with. However, studies have also shown that the most successful form of rehab is inpatient treatment because of the separation from addiction triggers and the around-the-clock supervision of medical staff.

What is the recovery rate for marijuana addiction?

The good news is, for people who decide to seek treatment for a marijuana use disorder, there is a 90% recovery rate.

Many people who have sought treatment for a cannabis addiction have successfully completed treatment and remain free from marijuana.

Does naltrexone help with marijuana cravings?

Yes, early studies have shown that naltrexone can help with marijuana cravings, the first medication to do so.

How long does it take for cannabinoid receptors to return to normal after treating addiction?

It takes around four weeks of abstinence from marijuana for cannabinoid receptors to return to normal.

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