THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is the chemical in drugs like marijuana that delivers the high to users. THC is the psychoactive component of the plant, and it’s what can be most dangerous and most addictive. If you have a marijuana addiction and are ready to get sober, then a THC detox will be part of the equation. Get familiar with the withdrawal symptoms, what to expect, and what comes after the detox itself on your journey to recovery at Crestview.
How to Tell if You Need to Detox From THC
In many states, the medical use of marijuana is legal. In Oregon, people can even use the drug recreationally. For these reasons, many people mistakenly believe that THC is a harmless compound. In reality, that couldn’t be further from the truth. Before attending drug addiction treatment, we recommend attending detox at one of Portland’s reputable facilities.
It’s still entirely possible to become physically and psychologically dependent on marijuana and its most potent chemical compound, THC. If you can’t relax or sleep without the use of the drug, then you’re probably in need of a detox.
If you want to end an addiction to marijuana, a detox is the first and most important step. When you go through detox, you’ll end consumption of the drug all at once. While this can lead to some withdrawal symptoms, it’s the only way to effectively begin the recovery process. Detox won’t last forever, and it can establish your life of health and freedom from addiction once and for all.
Side Effects of THC Addiction
One of the most common arguments in favor of marijuana use is that the drug doesn’t have any negative side effects. Of course, an addiction to THC means that many negative side effects are likely. These side effects can be physical, financial, and behavioral, among many others.
Cannabis use can greatly reduce verbal communication skills as well as cognitive function. The more you rely on drugs like THC, the more likely it is that you’ll struggle with memory loss. The brain can actually begin to change with the chronic use of marijuana, and these changes can be permanent. In some individuals, IQ can decrease over time as a result of marijuana consumption.
Typical THC Withdrawal Timeline
The good news is that a THC detox doesn’t last long. Although the specific timeline varies from person to person, the average duration is just two weeks in total.
The first day of detox can begin with some mild withdrawal symptoms. This is often barely noticeable, but for heavy users, it can be uncomfortable. By day two or three, withdrawal symptoms will reach their peak. After that, symptoms can lessen, but psychological symptoms may continue for another week or two for some people.
Common Symptoms During a THC Detox
During a THC detox, a number of withdrawal symptoms can occur. In the first few days of withdrawal, many of the symptoms are physical. Some of these can include nausea, vomiting, chills, extreme sweating, and headaches.
Later, most withdrawal symptoms are psychological. Some of the most common of these symptoms are anxiety, depression, insomnia, cravings, and irritability.
What Comes After the THC Detox?
After attending a Portland detox center, the next step is to find ongoing care. If you want to overcome addiction, then you’ll need to learn how to maintain your newly found sobriety. At Crestview Recovery, rehab programs prepare people for a future without drugs. Some treatment methods available in rehab include:
- Residential and inpatient treatment
- Partial hospitalization program (PHP)
- Intensive outpatient program (IOP)
- Outpatient drug rehab
- Rehab aftercare
- Trauma therapy
- Exercise therapy program
A THC detox may be the best way to overcome marijuana addiction. At Crestview Recovery in Portland, Oregon, you’ll have access to the resources you need to fight back against drugs. Find freedom from addiction by calling 866.262.0531.
