For local residents, there are several important reasons to seek marijuana addiction treatment in Tampa, FL. First and foremost is the need to address the damaging effects of this form of addiction. However, when you stop using marijuana, you may also gain other important benefits. Why? Cannabis can sometimes act as a gateway drug. In other words, it can potentially increase your future chances of using other addictive substances. When you stop using it, you may also help prevent other addictions from occurring.
Concerned about the current and future risks of your marijuana use? Contact the rehab specialists at Sophros Recovery Tampa today by calling 813.686.6306. Our knowledgeable staff is standing by to answer your questions regarding this important subject. We’re also your source for customized treatment of marijuana addiction.
What Is the Gateway Drug Theory of Substance Use?
What is the gateway drug theory, and how does it work? This theory states that using a relatively “safe” substance increases your odds of using a more dangerous substance later on. Typical examples of so-called safer substances include:
- Marijuana
- Alcohol
- Nicotine
Examples of generally riskier substances include heroin and cocaine.
The existence of gateway drugs has long been a subject of debate. Some commentators view the theory as a scare tactic intended to deter all substance use. However, others see real-world evidence of people who get trapped in cycles of escalating drug consumption. Fortunately, a significant amount of research on the gateway theory is now available. This research makes it easier to determine if the theory is actually accurate.
Is Marijuana a Gateway Drug or Isn’t It?
Marijuana is often viewed as the classic gateway drug. Does it deserve this reputation? The answer to this question is yes (in certain situations).
Most people who use marijuana never go on to use heroin or any other hard drug. This means that, strictly speaking, the drug doesn’t always act as a gateway substance. However, there’s more to the story. Studies show that marijuana is a gateway drug for some people. For example, teens who use it can increase their chances of developing serious opioid problems as adults.
How does this happen? The use of marijuana in early life can change your brain’s response to other drugs. Specifically, it can increase the amount of pleasure you feel when you use those drugs. In turn, increased pleasure makes you more likely to abuse a given drug. As a result, you’re more likely to get addicted to it.
Other Factors in the Gateway Effect
There are also other explanations for the impact of marijuana as a gateway drug. Importantly, the factors that help trigger cannabis use are the same as those that trigger other forms of drug use. They include such things as:
- Your genetic makeup
- A tendency toward impulsive behavior
- Past exposure to traumatic experiences
- The environment in which you grow up
However, it’s important to note that certain factors can decrease the gateway effect. For example, your genetic makeup can lower your chances of abusing any substance. The same is true for a lack of impulsive behavior and a past that doesn’t include trauma exposure. It’s also true for an environment that doesn’t promote substance use or abuse.
Start Recovery Today at Sophros Recovery with Marijuana Addiction Treatment
Is marijuana a gateway drug? Yes and no. Cannabis use doesn’t always increase your chances of using more dangerous substances. However, the possibility of this happening is real. That’s especially true if you start using marijuana early in life.
Want more information on marijuana and the gateway effect? Get it today at Sophros Recovery Tampa. We can help you assess the risks of using this common drug both now and in the future. You can also turn to us for help recovering from cannabis abuse and addiction. Just contact us today at 813.686.6306 or use our online contact form.
