Marijuana addiction treatment at Red Ribbon Recovery Indiana provides a structured yet flexible approach to overcoming cannabis dependence while addressing mental health concerns and co-occurring disorders. Effective treatment involves personalized care considering your medical history, individual needs, challenges, strengths, support system, and specific recovery goals. If you’re struggling with marijuana use, Red Ribbon Recovery can help. Our marijuana rehab center provides a variety of treatment programs to help you break free from drug addiction and create a life you enjoy.

What is marijuana?

Marijuana is a psychoactive substance derived from the Cannabis sativa plant. Its main active ingredient, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), affects the central nervous system by interacting with cannabinoid receptors in the brain. These interactions can alter perception, mood, coordination, and cognitive function.

While smoking marijuana or using cannabis in other forms may produce feelings of relaxation or euphoria, regular use is associated with health risks, particularly when it begins in adolescence or continues long-term. Despite its legal status in many areas, marijuana remains an addictive substance that can negatively impact mental and physical health.

Marijuana abuse and addiction

Although marijuana is legal in many states, it is still an addictive substance with the potential for misuse. Regular use, especially over time, can lead to changes in brain function and behavior, increasing the risk of developing cannabis use disorder. Individuals may begin using marijuana casually, but with repeated exposure, especially through smoking marijuana, it can evolve into a pattern of dependence that interferes with daily life.

As with other mental health and substance use concerns, marijuana addiction can be difficult to recognize at first. Because it is derived from a plant and widely accepted in many social settings, the health risks are often underestimated. However, marijuana affects the central nervous system in ways that can lead to long-term cognitive and emotional consequences, especially when use begins early or becomes chronic.

From recreation to dependence

Marijuana abuse often begins with casual or occasional use, typically for relaxation or social purposes. Over time, individuals may begin using marijuana more frequently to manage stress, anxiety, or other underlying mental health conditions. As reliance on the substance grows, it can become difficult to relax or function without it, indicating the development of psychological dependence.

With continued use, the body also begins to adapt, requiring larger amounts of marijuana to achieve the same effect. This increase in tolerance can lead to physical dependence and, eventually, marijuana addiction. Even those using marijuana for medical reasons may find themselves consuming more than prescribed, which can lead to problematic patterns of use.

Several risk factors can increase the likelihood of marijuana abuse and addiction. These include early initiation of use, chronic stress, exposure to trauma, co-occurring substance use, and a family history of addiction. Starting marijuana use during adolescence, when the brain is still developing, is also a well-documented risk factor for long-term dependency.

Signs of marijuana addiction

How do you know when your use of cannabis has become a marijuana addiction? There are several things to watch out for to help you learn if you abuse marijuana.

According to the CDC, these are signs you have a marijuana addiction:

  • Craving cannabis
  • Using more marijuana than intended
  • Spending a significant amount of time and money getting cannabis and using it
  • Trying to quit using weed but failing
  • Using marijuana even though it’s causing problems in your home, work, and school life
  • Using weed even though it’s causing social or relationship issues
  • Skipping important events or activities to use marijuana
  • Using cannabis in risky situations, such as while driving
  • Needing more marijuana to get the same feelings of being high
  • Having withdrawal symptoms when you try to stop using marijuana

The good news is that marijuana addiction is treatable, and recovery is possible with the right support. Like other substance use disorders, marijuana dependency is not a reflection of willpower or character—it is a physical health condition that affects both the brain and body. Seeking help is a sign of strength, not failure.

Marijuana abuse treatment focuses on helping individuals stop cannabis use, develop healthier coping strategies, and rebuild their lives. Marijuana addiction treatment centers like Red Ribbon Recovery in Indiana provide evidence-based care in a supportive environment, guiding individuals toward long-term healing and personal growth.

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How marijuana abuse impacts the mind and body

Over a long period of time, those who abuse marijuana will see significant impacts on their health and lifestyle. One of the well-known health risks is that continued abuse leads to many of the same respiratory problems as cigarette smokers, such as a daily cough, frequent chest illnesses, and a heightened risk of lung infections.

Long periods of marijuana abuse, or using large amounts of it, may also cause:

  • Anxiety, fear, or panic
  • Elevated heart rate
  • Chronic bronchitis
  • Nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain
  • Acid reflux
  • Pancreatitis
  • An increased risk of head, neck, or throat cancers
  • Damage to the immune system

Exposure to marijuana smoke doesn’t just affect the person using it. It can also harm the health of friends and family. Secondhand smoke has been linked to respiratory issues, asthma attacks, and complications for individuals with conditions like COPD or bronchitis. The consequences of using marijuana regularly can extend beyond the individual, impacting the well-being of those around them.

Seeking drug abuse treatment for marijuana addiction can help you reduce these risks and reclaim your health. With the right support, you can move toward a healthier, more fulfilling life free from the challenges of substance use.

Get help with marijuana addiction

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Substance abuse treatment at Red Ribbon Recovery

When you seek addiction treatment for marijuana abuse at Red Ribbon Recovery, you’ll find our staff warm and helpful. You’ll start with a series of assessments that help us understand what substance abuse concerns there are and if you need any mental health services added to your treatment plan.

If you use any other drugs, that will also be taken into account when personalizing your plan.

Medical detox for marijuana withdrawal

Marijuana withdrawal symptoms can be very uncomfortable and can make it hard to quit using the drug. Our marijuana detox program includes medical supervision 24/7 as well as intervention to help treat withdrawal symptoms.

Some of the common withdrawal symptoms include:

  • Anger or aggression
  • Irritability
  • Anxiety or nervousness
  • Restlessness
  • Decreased appetite and weight loss
  • Depression
  • Insomnia
  • Headaches and abdominal pain
  • Tremors
  • Strange and upsetting dreams

With the support of our team, you can complete the detox process safely and as comfortably as possible. Our detox program also includes behavioral therapy, group therapy sessions, treatment planning, and ongoing support.

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) on co-occurring disorders

An essential part of the treatment process for marijuana use disorder is identifying and addressing any co-occurring mental health disorders. When both conditions are present, which is known as a dual diagnosis, they must be treated simultaneously to achieve long-term recovery. Each condition can influence the other, making integrated care critical for success.

According to SAMHSA, more than 20 million people in the United States experience co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders. This underscores the need for comprehensive care that addresses both the emotional and physical aspects of addiction.

At Red Ribbon Recovery, our treatment facilities are equipped to support individuals with dual diagnoses. We provide customized treatment plans that focus on healing the whole person through evidence-based care.

Inpatient treatment for marijuana abuse recovery

Marijuana addiction treatment may start with an inpatient or residential treatment program. This high level of care gives you 24/7 support and a very structured lifestyle to help you break old habits and create new mindsets.

The intensive care that you get during inpatient treatment can be helpful for severe marijuana addiction or marijuana abuse issues alongside co-occurring mental health disorders.

Residential treatment includes individual and group therapy, as well as family therapy. Family involvement can be very important as you seek treatment. Family members are often affected by a loved one’s cannabis addiction, and it can cause divisions within the family along with broken relationships. Family therapy helps your loved ones understand marijuana abuse recovery, learn how to set appropriate boundaries, and discover how to become part of your sobriety support system.

Group and individual therapy sessions use evidence-based treatment approaches, including motivational enhancement therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy. The therapeutic process is designed to get to the root of addiction, challenge unhelpful assumptions, and show you how to think in new ways.

Outpatient treatment for marijuana addiction

Outpatient drug abuse treatment programs can vary significantly, depending on their intensity. The highest intensity is partial hospitalization programs (PHPs). Intensive outpatient programs (IOPs) are mid-level intensity, and the lowest level of outpatient care is general outpatient treatment.

In a partial hospitalization program, you’ll attend full-day marijuana addiction treatment. You’ll have individual and group therapy and learn more about the impacts of smoking marijuana, the health effects of marijuana use, and how to address a marijuana abuse problem. A PHP can provide a similar intensity of treatment as an inpatient program, and your family members can be involved in supporting you as well.

An intensive outpatient program meets for a few hours per session, a few days a week. This flexibility allows it to fit around work or school obligations. IOP treatment is more focused on helping you live independently. It includes individual therapy, group sessions, education about drug use, and relapse prevention classes. You’ll learn how family members can be part of your support system and connect to other support groups as well.

General outpatient treatment meets only once or twice a week and is often part of an aftercare program. You’ll get individual therapy sessions using approaches with clinical evidence, as before. You may also have counseling with family members as well as occasional group sessions.

Aftercare support for ongoing recovery

Rehab centers know that the end of marijuana abuse treatment is just the beginning of your healthy, productive life. That’s why they provide ongoing support to help you maintain long-term recovery. Rehab centers might have alumni programs or peer support, and they can connect you to support groups as well.

If you need community resources or social services, the treatment center can help with that as well. For example, they can connect you to medical care for disease control or social service organizations for help with housing and job training.

Maintaining your recovery isn’t easy, but with the right support, you can enjoy a healthier life focused on setting goals and building strong relationships.

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Our rehab center accepts most insurance plans.

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Get started with marijuana addiction treatment today

Deciding to seek treatment is courageous, and our team at Red Ribbon Recovery is here to help. We are a leading provider of substance use treatment for marijuana and other drugs, including alcohol. With our broad range of treatment programs, we can personalize a treatment plan to fit your exact needs. If you’re ready to design a life that aligns with your values and embrace a happier, healthier future, we’re here to support you. Contact us today to take your first steps.

We are here to help you or a loved one find addiction treatment near you.

Admitting you have a substance abuse problem and asking for help is not always easy. If you or a loved one are struggling with drug addiction, alcohol addiction or another substance use disorder, help is available. Call SAMHSA’s National Helpline at (317) 707 9848 to learn about resources in your area or reach out to our team for personalized treatment.

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Sources

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Cannabis Use Disorder. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2 Nov. 2023, https://www.cdc.gov/cannabis/health-effects/cannabis-use-disorder.html.

National Institute on Drug Abuse. Cannabis (Marijuana) Research Report. National Institutes of Health, 13 Dec. 2022, https://nida.nih.gov/research-topics/cannabis-marijuana.

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Co-Occurring Disorders. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, https://www.samhsa.gov/substance-use/treatment/co-occurring-disorders.

About the content

Last updated on: May 14, 2025
Jodi Tarantino (LICSW)

Written by: Carli Simmonds. Carli Simmonds holds a Master of Arts in Community Health Psychology from Northeastern University. From a young age, she witnessed the challenges her community faced with substance abuse, addiction, and mental health challenges, inspiring her dedication to the field.

Jodi Tarantino (LICSW)

Medical reviewed by: Jodi Tarantino, LICSW. Jodi Tarantino is an experienced, licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) and Program Director with over 20 years of experience in Behavioral Healthcare. Also reviewed by the RRR Editorial team.

Red Ribbon Recovery is committed to delivering transparent, up-to-date, and medically accurate information. All content is carefully written and reviewed by experienced professionals to ensure clarity and reliability. During the editorial and medical review process, our team fact-checks information using reputable sources. Our goal is to create content that is informative, easy to understand and helpful to our visitors.

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