The Use of Marijuana is Growing, but Treatment is Ignored

• The number of daily marijuana users is increasing, especially among young people.
• Treatment for cannabis dependence remains inadequately utilized.
• The high potency of modern products can lead to serious health problems.

The use of marijuana in the U.S. has increased, particularly among young people, at a time when the number of people seeking help is decreasing. Many individuals, such as 75-year-old Miguel Laboy, are daily users of marijuana, unaware that their usage has become dependence.

According to research, daily marijuana use has surpassed alcohol use since 2022. Many products on the market contain significantly more THC than in previous decades, leading to difficulties in recognizing when medicinal use becomes dependence.

Experts, such as physician Kevin Hill, emphasize the importance of increasing awareness about the risks associated with marijuana use. Many people believe that marijuana cannot cause dependence, which often leaves treatment options overlooked.

Rising Dependence

Studies show that nearly 30% of marijuana users may suffer from cannabis use disorder. The experience of individuals, such as 24-year-old Megan Feller, illustrates how important it is to seek help when marijuana use begins to impact quality of life.

Moreover, doctors warn that the high potency of modern products can cause memory, attention, and emotional state issues. This complicates the identification of dependence, as the effects often manifest gradually.

Risks and Treatment

In Brooklyn, Massachusetts, Laboy turned to a consultant for the use of psychoactive substances due to feelings of depression and increasing isolation. Despite seeking help, he cannot detach from marijuana, as there are currently no approved medications for treating cannabis dependence.

Doctors highlight the need to educate about the risks of marijuana use, as many people do not realize it can cause serious health problems.

Research also indicates that from 2003 to 2019, the percentage of people receiving treatment for cannabis use disorder decreased from 19% to 13%. This suggests that the increasing legalization and tolerant attitudes towards marijuana may influence the willingness to seek help.

Tags: USA/Well-being