Cannabis addiction treatment
Cannabis, also known as marijuana or weed, is a widely used recreational drug that can lead to dependency with heavy use. However, with the right support, you can recover from cannabis addiction with a rehab programme.
In the year to March 2023, 2.5 million people in the UK reported using cannabis. Cannabis addiction is a growing concern, with many people underestimating its potential to lead to dependency. While it’s often viewed as a harmless recreational drug, using weed frequently can result in addiction, impacting both your mental and physical health.
Personalised rehab programmes offer the tools and guidance you need to break free from dependency and rebuild a healthier, more fulfilling life.
How marijuana addiction is treated
Professional cannabis addiction treatment is essential to provide support during withdrawal, therapy to help you understand the root causes of your dependency, and guide you towards long-term recovery.
Detox
Detox isn’t always necessary for cannabis addiction but it can help you to manage any withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, insomnia or mood swings. The detoxification process takes place in a medically assisted environment, and removes all traces of cannabis from your body, creating a solid foundation for therapy.
Therapeutic interventions
Therapeutic interventions can help you to manage your cravings, resolve deeper mental health concerns and restore balance to your life.
- Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT): CBT is effective for weed addiction as it helps you to identify and reframe negative thought patterns that led to your substance use. CBT equips you to handle stress, trauma or depression in new ways, without relying on weed
- Group therapy: Group therapy offers peer support, reduces isolation and encourages consistency in recovery. Sharing strategies for managing cravings and staying motivated are key benefits
- Family therapy: Family therapy addresses the relational dynamics affected by weed misuse. It helps repair trust and equips families with the tools to provide effective support
Treatment plans
Treatment for marijuana addiction can be accessed on an inpatient or outpatient basis, depending on individual preferences and needs.
- Inpatient treatment provides intensive, round-the-clock care in a controlled environment. This option is beneficial for people who may need to remove themselves from triggering environments
- Day care offers structured therapy sessions for a set number of full or half days each week, making it ideal for people who need ongoing support for their addiction but prefer to live at home
- Outpatient care includes weekly or fortnightly sessions for people with milder symptoms or those who are stepping down from more intensive care. Common approaches to outpatient support include CBT or family therapy
Weed rehab at Priory provides a secure, supervised environment where you can dedicate yourself to recovery, free from external triggers. Professional support of this kind offers the safety, expertise and personalised care you need for sustainable recovery - something that you might not be able to achieve or manage on your own.
At Priory, you can expect:
- Personalised treatment plans designed to address the physical, emotional and social aspects of your addiction
- Access to experienced therapists and evidence-based treatments
- Continuity of care, supporting you beyond the initial recovery phase
Rehab also helps treat any co-occurring mental health issues and lifestyle factors that may be contributing to your dependency.
Signs you might need cannabis rehab
There are several key signs that suggest you might need support for your cannabis use. Cannabis addiction symptoms can be physical, psychological and behavioural/social, and could include:
Frequent cannabis use, despite harmful consequences
- Using cannabis to cope with stress or emotions, or prioritising it over responsibilities
- Developing a tolerance to cannabis or experiencing withdrawal symptoms when you’re not taking it
- Changes in appetite, disrupted sleep patterns or fatigue
- Increased anxiety, paranoia or lack of motivation
The link between cannabis and other drugs
Cannabis use is frequently linked to the use of other substances. For some people, cannabis acts as a gateway drug, increasing the likelihood of them experimenting with or becoming dependent on more harmful substances such as cocaine, opioids or amphetamines.
Polydrug addictions (becoming addicted to more than one drug) can be an issue for cannabis users. Combining cannabis with other drugs can amplify its effects, as well as significantly increasing health risks such as overdose, mental health deterioration and severe dependency. Using cannabis alongside alcohol, prescription medications or illegal drugs may worsen withdrawal symptoms and complicate recovery.
Private addiction treatment at Priory addresses these challenges by tailoring treatment plans to manage multiple dependencies. Our experienced addiction specialists will assess your substance use history to develop treatment strategies that address all dependencies. Therapy focuses on understanding the interconnection between these addictions, identifying triggers and building resilience, to prevent relapse.
Private treatment at Priory
Choosing private treatment at Priory offers several advantages:
- Fast access: Begin treatment without long waiting times
- Tailored treatment plans: Personalised to address all aspects of addiction
- Expert care: Access to leading specialists in addiction and mental health care
Treatment can be funded through private health insurance or self-funding. A free initial assessment allows you to explore the most appropriate options.
Free treatment options
Free addiction treatment can be accessed through public and charitable organisations. These include:
- GP referral: GPs can assess your situation and refer you to local addiction services or mental health teams
- Charitable organisations: Groups like Narcotics Anonymous (NA) or other charities provide support groups and counselling
- NHS services: The NHS offers addiction programmes, though these often involve longer waiting times and less personalised care
Whether choosing private or free options, seeking professional help is a vital step toward recovery.
According to Priory expert, Dr Niall Campbell, cannabis misuse is on the rise, especially amongst teens, and it's strongly linked to increasing cases of drug-induced psychosis.
“I am seeing an increasing number of young adults with paranoid psychoses – a schizophrenia-like illness and depression, which developed from marijuana use,” he said.
Read more about how cannabis and psychosis are linked.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need detox to quit cannabis?
Detox may not be necessary for every user, but it can be helpful for managing withdrawal symptoms.
How long does marijuana rehab take?
A 28-day programme is standard, but treatment length can vary based on your individual needs and commitments.
Can I work or study while undergoing rehab?
Inpatient rehab means you’ll stay with us on a residential basis, which means you won’t be able to work during this time. However, outpatient or day care options allow you to continue with some of your daily responsibilities.
What if I also have other addictions or mental health issues?
Priory provides comprehensive care to address co-occurring conditions alongside cannabis addiction.
Is rehab confidential?
Yes, all treatment at Priory is conducted with the highest level of confidentiality to protect your privacy.
