With the rise of legal recreational and medical marijuana, many people perceive cannabis now as harmless. Although cannabis can be highly beneficial for specific medical conditions and is not as intense or addictive as some other drugs, it is not risk-free.
The potency of cannabis and THC levels has significantly increased—from around 9% THC in 2008 to over 40% in some legal dispensary products today—raising concerns about addiction and cognitive effects [1].
Understanding THC’s effects on the brain and its potential for dependence is essential. Quitting THC can lead to uncomfortable symptoms such as anxiety, insomnia, and nausea without professional support. Read on to learn more about this and how safely withdrawing from THC in a medically supervised detox program may be the best option for you.
What is THC?
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the psychoactive component found in cannabis that causes cerebral effects and the feeling of “getting high”. It belongs to a broader group of compounds known as cannabinoids, which interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system.
THC acts as a partial agonist on cannabinoid receptors, such as CB1 and CB2, which are primarily found in the central nervous system and immune cells. When THC binds to these receptors, it can alter communication between neurons and trigger the release of neurotransmitters, leading to the psychoactive effects often associated with cannabis use. The activation of CB1 receptors influences regions of the brain that control functions such as pain perception, memory, and muscle coordination [2].
Ongoing, chronic use of cannabis, especially with THC levels above 0.3% can lead to several cognitive defects and dependence. For those who use medical marijuana, it’s best to opt for cannabis products with lower levels of THC to reduce the risk of dependence and adverse effects.
Understanding Cannabis Addiction
Although many believe cannabis is harmless, research shows that around 3 in 10 users develop a cannabis use disorder and dependence on THC. Individuals who abuse cannabis often perceive their consumption as moderate or normal, however, chronic cannabis use can impact relationships, work, and other responsibilities. It can also increase the risk of developing underlying mental health problems such as depression, anxiety, and psychosis.
Cannabis addiction has increased over recent years, correlated with the rise of medical marijuana cards and stronger products with higher levels of THC than in the past. Data from 2020 reported that around 14 million Americans 12 and older struggle with a marijuana use disorder [3].
Some of the long-term effects of cannabis addiction include:
- Memory loss
- Shortened attention span
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Lack of motivation or pleasure
- Lung irritation or bronchitis (if smoking)
- Increases risk of psychosis
Why Choose a Medical Detox for THC?
Many users attempt to quit THC on their own but fail due to uncomfortable symptoms, stress, or boredom that trigger the return to cannabis use. Although cannabis is not as physically addictive as some synthetic drugs, many develop a tolerance and experience withdrawal symptoms when discontinued.
Medical detox can reduce the risk of relapse and give clients an environment to focus on the underlying emotional challenges that lead to cannabis use in the first place.
THC Withdrawal Symptoms and Timeline: What to Expect
Although THC withdrawal is not as intense as other substance use disorders, such as alcohol or opioids, quitting cold turkey is not an option for some long-term cannabis users. THC withdrawal can be done at home and often is not life-threatening, however, professional support can greatly improve successful treatment outcomes.
Days 1-3 (Onset)
Early withdrawal symptoms first begin. These include anxiety, cravings, insomnia, headache, sweating, nausea, and irritability.
Days 3-7 (Peak)
Withdrawal symptoms peak and are most intense. Physical symptoms include nausea, chills, sweating, and a general feeling of having the flu. Psychological symptoms often include depression, mood swings, and intense cravings.
Weeks 2-4 (Tapering)
Symptoms begin to subside, but mood swings, irritability, and occasional cravings, especially under stress, continue.
Beyond 4 Weeks
Some individuals experience ongoing effects for several months, known as post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS), that include ongoing mood swings, anxiety, and trouble sleeping.
Our Medical THC Detox Program at Rushton Recovery
Our detox program connects you with trusted medical providers who lay the groundwork for long-term recovery from cannabis and THC dependence. Our detox program consists of:
- 24/7 Medical Supervision offering around-the-clock care by certified medical and behavioral health professionals, ensuring safety and comfort throughout THC withdrawal.
- Personalized Detox Plans tailored to your unique individual health history, dependence severity, and co-occurring mental health needs.
- Full-Continuum of Care: After detox, clients can move easily into residential treatment where they receive evidence-based therapies and substance abuse counseling, relapse prevention, and peer support.
What To Expect After Detox
Our residential treatment program provides a safe and stabilizing space to fully detox and recover from cannabis use, polydrug use, and co-occurring mental health challenges. Some of the services you can expect as part of our cannabis addiction treatment program include:
- Individual therapy, like CBT and DBT, addresses triggers and emotional pain that lead to cannabis use and focuses on building healthy coping skills.
- Group Therapy and Peer Support sessions foster a sense of community and accountability through shared experiences.
- Trauma-Informed Care focuses on empowering patients, building trust, and helping them process underlying emotional distress.
- Recreational Therapies, outdoor activities, and holistic healing such as hiking and yoga, foster emotional resilience, can promote social bonding, and increase motivation for long-term recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions About THC Detox
What symptoms should I expect during cannabis detox?
Common symptoms include irritability, insomnia, anxiety, loss of appetite, and mood swings as your body adjusts to functioning without THC.
Do you accept insurance?
Yes, we accept most major insurance plans, and so do our detox partners. We do not accept Medicare or Medicaid. Call our admissions office to learn more and verify your benefits.
What happens after detox at Rushton Recovery?
After detox, clients transition to residential or ongoing outpatient support where they have access to personalized therapy, relapse prevention programs, and peer specialists to help maintain a cannabis free-lifestyle.
Do you treat other drugs alongside cannabis?
Yes, we provide comprehensive treatment for polydrug use disorders as well as co-occurring mental health challenges.
Detox and Residential Treatment for Marijuana Abuse in Michigan
Rushton Recovery understands how challenging recovering from substance abuse is and that it requires a comprehensive approach to care. Our supervised medical detox and holistic residential treatment center in Michigan offers a healing space to embark on your journey toward a cannabis-free lifestyle.
We offer evidence-based therapies designed to evolve with your individual needs and address the root of your cannabis abuse. Let our team help you heal, repair relationships, and equip you with the skills to achieve long-term recovery.
Reach out to our Admissions team now.
Sources
[1] Stuyt E. (2018). The Problem with the Current High Potency THC Marijuana from the Perspective of an Addiction Psychiatrist. Missouri medicine, 115(6), 482–486.
[2] London, E. et al. (2019). Cannabis effects on brain structure, function, and cognition: considerations for medical uses of cannabis and its derivatives. The American journal of drug and alcohol abuse, 45(6), 563–579.
[3] National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics. 2020. Marijuana Addiction: Rates & Usage Statistics.
