Drug and Alcohol

Overcoming Marijuana Addiction

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: Explore effective marijuana addiction treatment options designed to support long-term recovery and help you build a healthier, drug-free life.

Struggling with marijuana use can feel isolating, especially when it begins to affect your health, relationships, and daily life. If you or someone you care about is facing this challenge, know that you're not alone—and that help is available. 

At The Edge Treatment Center, we offer compassionate and personalized marijuana addiction treatment to support your journey toward a healthier, drug-free life. With the proper care and guidance, healing is possible. This article explores effective treatment options to help you or your loved one find lasting recovery and renewed well-being.

What Is Marijuana Addiction?

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Marijuana addiction—clinically known as Cannabis Use Disorder (CUD)—occurs when someone continues using marijuana despite significant adverse effects on their life, health, or responsibilities. While not everyone who uses marijuana becomes addicted, frequent and long-term use can lead to dependency and withdrawal symptoms when trying to quit.

Cannabis Use Disorder is the official diagnosis used by medical professionals. It covers a range of use patterns, from mild to severe. Addiction, on the other hand, represents the more severe end of this spectrum—when a person cannot stop using despite harmful consequences.

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, about 1 in 10 people who use marijuana will develop an addiction. This risk increases to 1 in 6 for those who start using as teens, and even more for those who use marijuana daily.

Signs & Withdrawal

Marijuana addiction can show up in both behavioral and physical ways. If you or someone you care about is struggling, recognizing the signs is an essential first step toward recovery.

Common Behavioral 

  • Using marijuana more frequently or in larger amounts than intended

  • Struggling to cut down or stop use

  • Prioritizing marijuana over responsibilities, relationships, or hobbies

  • Increased tolerance, needing more to feel the same effects

  • Used to cope with stress, boredom, or emotional pain

Physical Signs 

  • Bloodshot eyes

  • Persistent cough or respiratory issues

  • Increased appetite

  • Lack of motivation or energy

  • Changes in sleep patterns

When someone with marijuana dependence stops using, withdrawal symptoms may follow. These are especially common in heavy or long-term users and can make quitting feel difficult without support.

Typical Withdrawal Symptoms Include:

  • Irritability or mood swings

  • Insomnia or vivid dreams

  • Loss of appetite

  • Anxiety or restlessness

  • Physical discomfort, like headaches or sweating

Symptoms often begin within 24–72 hours after stopping, peak around day 7–10, and can last up to two to three weeks. At The Edge Treatment Center, we provide support through these challenges with personalized care and evidence-based therapy

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Treatment Approaches

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Overcoming marijuana addiction requires more than just willpower—it takes the proper support, tools, and professional care. At The Edge Treatment Center, we employ a comprehensive and personalized approach that addresses both the physical and emotional aspects of recovery. Here’s how we help:

Behavioral Therapies

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT helps you understand the thoughts, emotions, and behaviors that drive marijuana use. It teaches healthier coping strategies to reduce cravings and prevent relapse.

Motivational Interviewing (MI): This client-centered therapy strengthens your motivation to change. It’s beneficial for those unsure if they’re ready to quit, as it helps build confidence and commitment.

Contingency Management: This approach uses positive reinforcement, such as rewards or incentives, to encourage progress, like staying sober or attending sessions consistently.

Family Therapy: Involving loved ones in treatment can improve communication, rebuild trust, and create a more supportive home environment that fosters recovery.

Support Systems

Peer support plays a key role in long-term success. Programs like Marijuana Anonymous offer judgment-free spaces to share experiences, gain accountability, and feel understood. At The Edge, we often recommend peer groups in conjunction with professional therapy to provide additional support beyond treatment sessions.

Medications & Detox

There are currently no FDA-approved medications specifically for marijuana addiction. However, some off-label medications may be used to manage withdrawal symptoms like anxiety, insomnia, or irritability. For individuals with heavy or prolonged use, a medically supervised detox can offer a safe and more comfortable way to begin recovery.

Dual Diagnosis Treatment

Marijuana addiction often co-occurs with mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, or trauma. These underlying issues can make quitting harder without professional support. That’s why at The Edge Treatment Center, we specialize in dual diagnosis care, treating both addiction and mental health disorders together to improve long-term outcomes.

How The Edge Treatment Center Helps

At The Edge Treatment Center, we understand that no two recovery journeys are the same. That’s why we begin every treatment plan with a personalized assessment—a detailed look at your history, mental health, and specific challenges related to marijuana use. This helps us tailor your care from the very first step.

Our team specializes in dual-diagnosis treatment, addressing both marijuana addiction and any co-occurring mental health conditions that may be influencing it. We know lasting recovery means healing the whole person, not just the addiction.

We also recognize the power of connection in the recovery process. That’s why we include peer and family support in your treatment plan—whether through structured group sessions, family involvement, or individual support systems you trust.

Finally, we don’t stop at initial treatment. Our team develops a comprehensive aftercare plan for you, including follow-up care, referrals, and relapse prevention strategies to sustain your progress long after you leave our center.

Choosing the Right Path

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Choosing the correct type of treatment is a crucial step toward lasting recovery from marijuana addiction.

Inpatient Vs. Outpatient Programs

At The Edge Treatment Center, we offer both inpatient and outpatient treatment options to meet you where you are in your recovery journey.

  • Inpatient treatment offers a safe and structured environment with 24/7 care. It's invaluable for those with more severe marijuana use, mental health concerns, or a home environment that makes sobriety challenging. You’ll have constant support, daily therapy, and time away from everyday stressors.

  • Outpatient programs offer flexibility. You continue living at home while attending scheduled therapy sessions during the week. This option works well if you have strong support at home and your addiction is mild to moderate.

The Value of Medically Supervised Detox

If you’ve been using marijuana heavily or for a long time, a medically supervised detox may be the best starting point. Although marijuana withdrawal isn’t typically life-threatening, symptoms like insomnia, anxiety, irritability, and cravings can interfere with quitting.

Under professional supervision, we can help ease those symptoms, provide emotional support, and reduce the risk of early relapse. Detoxification is often the first and most crucial step in establishing a foundation for lasting recovery.

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Aftercare & Long-Term Success

Recovery doesn’t end when treatment does—maintaining a drug-free life takes continued support, structure, and commitment. That’s why aftercare is a vital part of every treatment plan at The Edge Treatment Center.

Importance of Relapse Prevention Planning

Relapse is a common challenge in recovery, but it doesn’t mean failure; it's a natural part of the process. With the right relapse prevention plan, you’ll be equipped to recognize triggers, manage cravings, and respond to stress in healthy ways. We work with you to build a strategy that supports your long-term goals and keeps your progress on track.

Continuing Therapy, Support Groups & Lifestyle Changes

Ongoing individual therapy, group sessions, and support groups like Marijuana Anonymous play an essential role in long-term recovery. We also encourage lifestyle changes—such as adopting healthy routines, exercising regularly, and practicing mindfulness—that reinforce your commitment to a drug-free life.

Peer Support and Family Involvement

Recovery thrives in connection. That’s why we emphasize the role of peer support and family involvement in aftercare. Whether through alumni groups, check-ins, or family-based counseling, we ensure you stay connected to people who understand your journey and support your continued growth.

Marijuana Taking Over Your Life? We’ll Help You Take It Back

Overcoming marijuana addiction is possible with the proper support, treatment, and determination. Whether you’re experiencing withdrawal, struggling with daily use, or managing co-occurring mental health issues, you don’t have to face it alone. 

At The Edge Treatment Center, we offer compassionate, personalized care built around your needs. From evidence-based therapy to long-term relapse prevention, we’re here to help you reclaim your life and make a healthier, drug-free future. If you're ready to take the first step toward marijuana addiction treatment, we’re prepared to support you every step of the way. Reach out to us today—your new life starts here.

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We’re Here To Help You Find Your Way

If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, there is hope. Our team can guide you on your journey to recovery. Call us today.

Written by

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The Edge Treatment Center

Reviewed by

jeremy-arztJeremy Arzt

Chief Clinical Officer

Drug and Alcohol

September 10, 2025

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Withdrawal symptoms include irritability, mood swings, insomnia, vivid dreams, appetite changes, and restlessness. These typically begin within the first week, peak around day 10, and can last up to three weeks, especially in long-term or heavy users.

Effective therapies include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), motivational enhancement therapy (MET), contingency management, and family therapy. These evidence-based approaches help individuals identify triggers, build coping skills, and improve motivation for long-term recovery and behavioral change.

There are currently no FDA-approved medications for marijuana addiction. However, some off-label medications may help manage specific withdrawal symptoms. Behavioral therapy and structured support remain the most effective treatment options for long-term recovery.

Yes. Marijuana use disorder responds well to behavioral therapies like CBT and MET. Peer support, family involvement, and structured aftercare planning also play critical roles in sustaining long-term recovery and preventing relapse.

Detox symptoms typically begin within a few days of stopping use, peak around day 10, and gradually taper off over 2–3 weeks. The duration and intensity depend on usage patterns, mental health status, and whether professional support is involved.