Author: Dylan Horwath

Women Smoking weed Outside is experiencing cannabis-induced psychosis

Cannabis-Induced Psychosis: An Overview

One growing concern as marijuana is legalized in more states is the risk of cannabis-induced psychosis. The commercialized marijuana on the market is about 20 percent more potent and has high levels of THC, the psychoactive chemical compound in marijuana. As a result, the risk of young people developing weed-induced psychosis is increasing. Fortunately, treating cannabis use disorder and co-occurring mental health conditions can help overcome this condition.  

What Is Cannabis-Induced Psychosis?

Cannabis-induced psychosis is the onset of psychotic symptoms from the use of marijuana. While rare, it can occur for various reasons in some individuals. Generally, younger people are more at risk because their brains are still developing. However, people with a predisposition and family history of certain mental health conditions, including bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and depression, are also at risk. 

Types of Cannabis-Induced Psychosis

There are two general types of weed-induced psychosis: acute and chronic. Acute psychosis is where the symptoms appear suddenly without any warning. The psychotic symptoms are usually short-lived and subside once the effects of marijuana wear off. However, they could return if marijuana use is continued. 

Chronic psychosis is where the symptoms will persist and reoccur without the use of marijuana. Using marijuana can increase the frequency of the symptoms while also causing them to worsen. Chronic psychotic symptoms are generally related to a co-occurring mental health condition that may have been triggered by continued marijuana use. 

Symptoms of Cannabis-Induced Psychosis

Psychosis is a generalized term used to cover several different symptoms that alter one’s perception of reality, and include:

  • Delusions: Believing that something is true, even when there is evidence to support it is not. For example, believing that someone is being watched and followed. 
  • Depersonalization and dissociation: Feeling a sense of detachment from one’s body or believing things around them, including people and locations, are not real. 
  • Behavioral changes: Experiencing different behaviors that can change suddenly and quickly, such as mood swings, easily becoming angered, laughing at inappropriate situations, becoming hyperactive, or sinking into a catatonic state. 
  • Disordered mental processes: Having difficulties organizing thoughts, switching from one subject to another when speaking, speaking quickly, or chaotically moving from one task to another. 
  • Hallucinations: Hearing, seeing, or perceiving sensations, images, scents, smells, or colors that are not real but are believed to be real to the person experiencing the hallucination. 

How Common Is Cannabis-Induced Psychosis?

Weed-induced psychosis is generally rare. However, higher THC levels in commercial marijuana have been linked to an increase in the number of cases in teens. One study found that regular use of marijuana by teenagers with TCH levels of 15% or more resulted in five times the risks of marijuana-induced psychosis. Another study reported that 47% of people who had experienced weed-included psychosis were diagnosed with bipolar disorder or schizophrenia. 

The development of marijuana-induced psychosis in young people is more common because their brains are still developing until around the age of 25. Marijuana use during this time can interrupt normal neurodevelopment and lead to a range of issues, such as:

  • Cognitive and thought problems
  • Impulsive decision-making
  • Increased risk-taking behaviors
  • Difficulties at work or school
  • Reduce reaction and coordination
  • Relationship issues
  • Increased risk of developing mental health conditions 

Is There Treatment?

Several evidence-based and holistic therapeutic modalities can be used to treat cannabis-induced psychosis as part of a comprehensive and personalized treatment plan, including:

  • Detox: Detox is the first step to overcoming cannabis use disorder and psychosis. Usually, the withdrawal symptoms from marijuana detox are not severe but should still be medically monitored to help reduce the risk of relapse. 
  • Inpatient Rehab: After detox, inpatient rehab can be beneficial for individuals who do not have a supportive home environment, could hurt themselves or others, or want to eliminate outside distractions to focus on their recovery. Inpatient treatment may also be recommended for people with co-occurring conditions. 
  • Outpatient Rehab: Outpatient rehab offers different levels of care and is ideal for people who have completed a higher level of care or do not require inpatient rehab. Instead of residing at the treatment facility, people continue living at home and have more flexibility in managing personal commitments and responsibilities.   
  • Aftercare: Aftercare treatment and relapse prevention planning are a vital part of sustained recovery. Aftercare plans can include ongoing therapy, peer support groups, medication-assisted treatment (MAT), and holistic therapies. 

All of these treatment options provide access to a range of therapeutic modalities, such as:

For people with co-occurring mental health conditions that were triggered as a result of long-term, high-potency marijuana use, dual diagnosis treatment is available at each care level. It is vital to treat both the marijuana use disorder as well as the co-occurring mental health condition to help reduce and prevent relapse. 

Find Treatment at Sanctuary Treatment Center Today

Are you or a loved one struggling with marijuana use and cannabis-induced psychosis? Sanctuary Treatment Center in Los Angeles and our caring and compassionate team are here to help you on your road to recovery. We offer personalized care plans tailored to your specific needs. Contact us today for further information or to start the admissions process. 

Published: 2/4/2025

People at a 12 steps of AA meeting

Alcoholics Anonymous: The 12 Steps of AA

When someone is addicted to alcohol, part of alcohol rehab treatment can be completing the 12 steps of AA. These steps help people come to terms with their addiction by accepting their actions have consequences and the steps they need to complete as part of their path to recovery. AA can be beneficial when part of a comprehensive rehab treatment program, as well as a part of aftercare treatment. 

What Is AA (Alcoholics Anonymous)?

Alcoholics Anonymous consists of a series of 12 steps based on a set of spiritual principles to help people address their alcohol addiction. There are no age restrictions or educational requirements to participate in AA meetings. They are open to everyone, even family and friends of individuals addicted to alcohol. The primary goal of AA meetings is to provide education, support, and help recovering alcoholics achieve and maintain their sobriety. 

History of Alcoholics Anonymous

Dr. Bob Smith and Bill Wilson from Arkon, Ohio, founded Alcoholics Anonymous. Both men were alcoholics and found that treatment in 1935 was ineffective and primitive. They developed the foundation and 12 steps of AA. 

They believed that alcohol use disorder was a disease that affected the mind, body, and emotions. In addition, they believed that with the right peer support and mutual assistance, people could overcome their addiction to alcohol and maintain their sobriety. 

Another common term used in place of AA or Alcoholics Anonymous is “Friends of Bill W.” The term refers to co-founder Bill Wilson and is a way for someone to ask or look for AA meetings without risking their anonymity. 

Principles of the 12 Steps of AA

The 12 steps of AA require individuals to work through each step. Although, once all 12 steps are completed, recovery is not over. People are encouraged to repeat various steps as part of their recovery process to help them maintain their sobriety. The principles found within the 12 steps include: 

  • Acceptance that one is powerless over one’s addiction
  • Recognizing that willpower is not enough to sustain recovery
  • Reviewing past mistakes
  • Attempting to make amends with those one hurt
  • Involving a higher power and spirituality to draw strength from
  • Attempting to help and support others in their recovery
  • Connecting and developing peer support to reduce isolation
  • Finding a sponsor who can help provide mentorship and guidance in times of need
  • Recognizing one has no control over others or various situations

Benefits and Drawbacks of the 12 Steps of AA

There are several benefits and drawbacks of the 12 steps of AA, as follows:

Benefits:

  • Structure: AA provides a structured program with specific goals and objectives, which people in recovery often need to reduce the risk of cravings and relapse.
  • Affordability: AA meetings are free and open to everyone and provide a valuable community resource for those struggling with alcohol addiction
  • Accessibility: AA meetings are easy to find in just about any city in the United States, with multiple meeting times. 
  • Sense of community: The 12 steps of AA help provide a sense of community and foster accountability, support, and belonging. 
  • Anonymity: AA meetings allow people to remain anonymous and not share their full name, where they live or work, or other details. This sense of anonymity can help reduce the stigmatization around getting help for alcohol addiction. 

Drawbacks:

  • Faith-based program: AA incorporates faith-based principles into its 12 steps. Some people may not want a program that uses religious beliefs or the belief of a higher power. 
  • No medical treatment: AA is a support group meeting and does not offer any type of medical treatment, such as detox or medication-assisted treatment (MAT). 
  • Focus is on working the 12 steps: The main objective of AA is for participants to work through the 12 different steps, which can overlook other vital parts of recovery, such as developing coping skills and relapse prevention plans. 
  • Public confessional: While there is no pressure on people to share at AA meetings, those who do have to make a public confessional by acknowledging their addiction to the group. This can be unsettling for some people and make them feel uncomfortable. 
  • Focuses only on addiction: AA mainly addresses alcohol addiction, but meetings are open for people with other substance use disorders and addictions. However, the program does not address co-occurring mental health issues

Is Alcoholics Anonymous Right For You?

Answering the following questions can help determine whether Alcoholics Anonymous is right for you:

  • Do you have concerns about your drinking?
  • Do you find it difficult to control your drinking once you start?
  • Do you have blackouts when drinking?
  • Do you engage in risky behaviors when drinking that you would not normally do when sober?
  • Are your friends and family questioning your drinking?
  • Do you look forward to drinking as a way to release stress or anxiety?
  • Does your life revolve around drinking?
  • Do you no longer find enjoyment in activities or hobbies you used to enjoy?
  • Do you need to drink just to be able to function and get through the day?
  • Have you distanced yourself from friends and family who think you have a drinking problem?
  • Has drinking impacted your relationships negatively?
  • Are you neglecting other responsibilities in favor of drinking?

Contact Sanctuary Treatment Center for Help Today

Are you ready to find out if Alcoholics Anonymous is right for you? Sanctuary Treatment Center in Los Angeles offers comprehensive and personalized alcohol addiction treatment programs. Our caring and supportive team works with you to develop a tailored care plan using evidence-based and holistic modalities. Contact us today for further information or to start the admissions process to a brighter, alcohol-free future. 

Published: 1/29/2025

Man Struggling with Addiction Parts of the Brain While Drinking Alcohol

Addiction Parts of the Brain

Addiction parts of the brain refer to the different areas in the brain that are altered and affected when someone has a substance use disorder. Alcohol and drugs alter how the brain functions and reinforce continuing to use the substance of choice. Learning more about these areas of the brain and how addiction affects them can provide encouragement and motivation for people to seek help and start their recovery journey to a brighter, substance-free future. 

Parts of the Brain Involved in Addiction

Several different parts of the brain are involved in addiction. Each of these areas uses neurons, which are chemical messengers, to send messages to other areas of the brain and throughout the body. They work together to complete various tasks, process information, solve problems, and provide feedback about emotions and feelings. 

The two main parts of the brain affected by addiction are the reward center and the stress center. In the reward center, the body naturally releases dopamine and serotonin, which are “feel good” neurons when we do something rewarding and enjoyable or exercise. 

Cortisone is released by the stress center when we feel threatened or in danger to trigger the body’s “flight or fight” response. When alcohol and other substances are introduced into the body, they alter how neurons function and the release of dopamine, serotonin, and cortisone. 

Many substances force the brain to increase the release of reward center neurons that flood the brain and result in pleasurable feelings and euphoria. When the effects of these substances begin to wear off, they trigger a release of cortisone, which is tied to experiencing negative withdrawal symptoms. 

Because the body dislikes the negative symptoms, the reward system encourages continued substance use through cravings. Cravings are a powerful urge to keep taking the substance in order to avoid the negative withdrawal symptoms. As a result, the body becomes addicted to the substance of choice. 

How Addiction Affects Brain Function

Substance use disorders affect addiction in parts of the brain responsible for different brain functions. The three primary regions of the brain that are impacted include:

Prefrontal Cortex: 

This brain region helps people reason, think, solve problems, and plan. It also helps people avoid making impulsive decisions or engaging in risky behaviors. When substances are introduced to this brain region, it slows cognitive functioning. As a result, people are more likely to act impulsively and take risks they would normally not.  

Basal Ganglia: 

This brain region is associated with motivation, enjoyment, and pleasure. It is also responsible for helping people make healthy choices, like eating a balanced diet or exercising daily. When the basal ganglia is functioning normally, it will naturally release a small amount of dopamine or serotonin, improving our moods and making us feel good. 

When substances are used, it forces the release of dopamine and serotonin at much higher levels. This causes a rush of pleasure and euphoria, which most people refer to as a “substance high.” The more the substance is used, the more this brain region associates substance use with pleasure.

Eventually, people can no longer feel any type of pleasure or enjoyment without using the substance because the natural stores of the neurons have been depleted. However, when they use the substance, it still forces the body to release the neurons. 

Another aspect of addiction in this part of the brain is tolerance. The more a substance is used, the more the brain adjusts to it. As it does, the euphoric and pleasurable feelings are no longer experienced without increasing the amount of the substance used. Every time there is an increase, the euphoria will be short-lived until the body becomes even more tolerant of the substance, further reinforcing addiction. 

Extended Amygdala:

This brain region is associated with stress, worry, and anxiety. It is related to addiction through the unpleasant withdrawal symptoms people experience when their substance of choice wears off. With continued substance use, the sensitivity of this brain region increases, resulting in even more intense and severe withdrawal symptoms. 

Another aspect of the extended amygdala related to addiction is the development of co-occurring mental health disorders. Some people can develop depression, anxiety, or other mental health issues from prolonged substance use. 

Recovery and the Brain

The brain is very resilient and can repair most damage caused by substance use disorders. The extent to which it is able to recover is influenced by:

  • The age of the person
  • Their overall health
  • The type of substance that was used
  • The amount taken
  • The duration they took the substance

Once the substance has been removed from the body through medically supervised detox, the brain goes to work to return to pre-substance use functioning. It does this through a process called neuroplasticity, which allows the brain to build new brain cells and neural pathways to grow, modify, and restore functioning.

However, it takes time for addiction in parts of the brain to heal. Initially, it will work on restoring the natural stores of depleted neurons. This is why some people experience psychological withdrawal symptoms for several months or longer after detox. Once these levels are restored, the brain starts rebuilding and repairing damages in the prefrontal cortex. 

To help improve healing and recovery not just for the brain but the body as well, some important holistic practices people can do are:

  • Exercise daily 
  • Eat a well-balanced, healthy diet
  • Get sufficient sleep
  • Meditate and practice mindfulness 

Contact Sanctuary Treatment Center for Help

When searching for help to overcome addiction, you can count on Sanctuary Treatment Center in Los Angeles. Our caring and supportive team provides comprehensive treatment services tailored to your specific needs and objectives. Contact us today to learn more about our personalized treatment options for healing and recovery from addiction in parts of the brain or to start the admissions process.  

Published: 1/27/2025

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