Synthetic marijuana is a man-made drug that is designed to replicate the effects of THC in marijuana. It is often marketed as “herbal incense” or “potpourri.” It has no medical use. Because of the unknown chemicals used to create this drug, synthetic marijuana is particularly dangerous.
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Synthetic marijuana looks like dried plants, and is designed to imitate the appearance of marijuana.
Synthetic marijuana is most commonly smoked. It can be mixed with marijuana or brewed as a tea.
Synthetic marijuana produces effects similar to those of marijuana, including feelings of relaxation and exhilaration. Some of marijuana’s adverse effects are magnified in synthetic marijuana. Short-term synthetic marijuana use can cause high blood pressure, anxiety, nausea, agitation, and powerful hallucinations, among other dangers.
Synthetic marijuana has a much greater potential for harm than marijuana, even though it is often marketed as a safer alternative. Many manufacturers of synthetic marijuana do not follow quality control standards, and many of the chemical components of the drug remain a mystery. As a result, some users ingest contaminated ingredients without realizing the severe hazards posed by the drug. Because synthetic marijuana is a drug that causes paranoia, violent behavior, and other severe reactions, poison centers have cautioned the public against the use of these synthetic cannabinoids.
Repeated misuse can lead to synthetic marijuana addiction, increased risk of abusing other substances, and health problems including:
Habitual abuse of synthetic marijuana can cause the brain to rely on the drug. Addiction leads to physical and behavioral changes such as:
Behavioral Symptoms
Physical Signs
There are hundreds of strains of synthetic marijuana making it impossible for the user to know what chemicals have been added to the strain they are taking. Because of this, overdoses from synthetic marijuana are not only common but extremely dangerous. Symptoms vary depending on the strain, but some common signs include:
Individuals who overdose on synthetic marijuana require immediate medical attention as the symptoms stated above might precede falling into a coma, long-term brain damage, heart attack, and even death.
As with any drug, abstaining from use is the first step in treatment. This allows the body to go through the detoxification process. To ensure the safety and comfort of the addicted individual, it is recommended that addicted individuals go through this process under the supervision of a healthcare professional.
Once the body has been stabilized, individuals should seek a comprehensive treatment plan to help them address the impact that synthetic marijuana has had on their health and lives. Rehabilitation options available for synthetic marijuana addiction include inpatient (residential) treatment and outpatient treatment. In treatment, individuals will receive the drug counseling, addiction education, and expert support they need to build a strong foundation for lasting recovery.
While traditional therapies are the core of addiction treatment, supplementing them with holistic therapies can help strengthen an individual’s recovery. Holistic therapies empower individuals to develop better self-awareness, foster mindfulness, and adopt techniques to positively deal with challenges.
Individuals struggling with synthetic marijuana addiction can replace their use with safe activities that promote healing and growth. Those who depended on synthetic marijuana to provide relaxation should experience the tranquility that Hikes and Walks can bring instead. Synthetic marijuana users who turned to the drug for stress relief can try Acupuncture, a secure alternative that produces a similar sense of comfort. Individuals who relied on synthetic marijuana for its mood-boosting properties may benefit from Mindfulness Through Music, which heightens positive emotions.
Staff-supervised hikes and walks throughout our more than 300 acres and the abutting Housatonic State Forest to help you practice self-reflection and recharge your spirit.
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Traditional Chinese practice that stimulates specific points on the body to re-balance energy, ease aches and pain, decrease…
Discover other therapeutic activities that provide physical, mental, and spiritual rejuvenation on our Wellness page.
If you or a loved one is struggling with synthetic marijuana addiction, know that you are not alone. Our team of medical, clinical, and wellness experts are here to help you break free from addiction and achieve the happy, healthy life you deserve.
