CHAT WITH US
GET HELP NOW
hand holding leaf considering is marijuana a gateway drug

Is Marijuana a Gateway Drug?

Is marijuana a gateway drug? Marijuana is a natural substance from the Cannaceae family and contains the psychoactive ingredient tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC for short. It creates a short-term euphoric effect along with longer-lasting pain relief and mood-enhancing properties. For some people, smoking marijuana can lead to other drugs if they are not getting the help they need with coping with depression, a past trauma, or other mental health disorders. Marijuana addiction treatment is essential for men and women whose addiction begins to interfere with their personal and professional lives. 

At Promises Behavioral Health, we help men and women struggling with an addiction to marijuana, alcohol, or other substances. While many people see marijuana as harmless when compared to opioids or other drugs, there is still a strong risk of forming a dependence and addiction and potentially leading to trying harder drugs. If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction to marijuana, call 844.875.5609 today for more information about our marijuana addiction treatment program.

Is Marijuana a Gateway Drug?

More states are allowing cannabis for medical and recreational use for men and women over 21 years of age. The potential mental and physical benefits far outweigh the risk of addiction for many people. Some have found they can reduce other medications because of the wide-ranging positive effects of marijuana. Like other drugs, marijuana does have addictive properties and can lead to addiction. 

Teens who come from broken homes or that use marijuana are more likely to experiment with the drug before their brain fully develops. This can cause serious dependence and addiction that will significantly hinder their development. If they don’t learn how to cope with the feelings that contribute to their abuse, it can lead them to try harder drugs for a more intense high. 

Is marijuana a gateway drug? At Promises Behavioral Health, we can answer that question and help you or a loved one stop their abuse before experimenting with heroin, meth, or other substances. 

Treating Marijuana Addiction

Is marijuana addictive? While the risk of addiction to marijuana is lesser than other drugs, there is still a risk of forming an addiction for men and women who have an addictive personality. 

Marijuana addiction is treatable through an accredited marijuana addiction treatment program. Here are some of the beneficial therapies that can treat addiction and prevent clients from moving on to harder drugs:

  • Cognitive-behavioral therapy – Behavioral therapy helps clients discover the root cause of their addiction, such as a past or recent trauma, depression, anxiety, or other undiagnosed mental health disorders. They better understand addiction and develop coping skills to maintain their sobriety.
  • Group therapy – During group therapy, clients will practice new coping skills while improving their communication skills and learn that it is OK to talk about their feelings. They also develop healthy relationships with their peers that can become a part of a strong network of support. 
  • Holistic therapy – Yoga, meditation, creative writing, and exercise are healthy examples of holistic therapies that can benefit your recovery. Clients can pick up new interests and hobbies to help them stay sober. 
  • Family therapy – This is another important part of addiction recovery and gives families a safe and judgment-free space to talk about any frustrations caused by the addiction. It also shows families how they can be a central part of the recovery process. 

Promises Behavioral Health: Your Best Resource for Effective Marijuana Addiction Treatment

At Promises Behavioral Health, we provide compassionate care for men and women struggling with addiction to marijuana, alcohol, or other substances. We do this by using various therapeutic techniques, such as:

  • Cognitive-behavioral therapy
  • Dialectical behavior therapy
  • EMDR therapy
  • Family therapy
  • Group and individual therapy
  • Art therapy
  • Equine-assisted therapy

To stop letting marijuana addiction control your life, call 844.875.5609 today to speak with our compassionate staff about enrolling in one of our addiction treatment center. 

Scroll to Top