The prevalence of the use of cannabis has surpassed new records. Although they are perceived as a soft drug or a harmless substance, cannabis causes dependency and withdrawal effects that may hamper daily activities. In Pakistan, a growing number of individuals are seeking professional help to overcome cannabis addiction and regain control of their health, relationships, and mental clarity.
This article presents five effective treatment approaches that all major rehabilitation centers have. All these are intended to not only tackle the addiction but also the emotional, psychological, and behavioural trends that keep the addiction alive.
Medically Guided Withdrawal
The first and most essential step in cannabis addiction treatment is detoxification. A lot of people think that cannabis withdrawal is insignificant. But it is possible to experience anxiety, insomnia, headaches, irritability, restlessness, and emotional disturbances. Such effects are stronger among individuals who use it in heavy doses for a long.
A rehabilitation clinic uses medical detox in a monitored setting. Only trained medical practitioners conduct them. The intention is to enable the body to excrete its content of THC and other toxins through a safe and regulated environment. The medical personnel pay attention to vital signs, provide supportive care, and treat withdrawal symptoms as they occur.
The time of detoxification is usually several days to two weeks, and depends on the health of an individual and physical capability. It is important to complete this stage before behavioural therapy or counselling.
Individual Counselling
Once the body is free from cannabis, the next phase of this addiction treatment focuses on the psychological patterns that lead to relapse. Reputable rehab clinics have qualified psychologists and therapists who treat this problem.
During such visits, the patient talks about emotional problems and past trauma, low self-esteem, anxiety, or depression because these problems might have led to substance use. The therapist assists the person to gain consciousness of the tendency in thinking, and practices how to manage the situation practically, in place of the desire to use cannabis.
This personalised style enables people to acquire control over understanding of their behaviour and take action to become emotionally and mentally stable. Private counselling provides long-term recovery to help patients learn to overcome triggers, establish healthy boundaries, and restore their confidence.
Emotional and Group Therapy
Isolation is a common side effect of cannabis addiction. A great number of people experience a lack of sense of belonging to family and friends, or escape social life. Hospitals use group therapy in their treatment scheme to provide support for emotions in a disciplined fashion.
People communicate with those who are already addressing their addiction in group sessions. They listen to their experiences, provide insight, and learn with each other on a safe, unjudgmental platform. This link gives a strong feeling of belongingness and encouragement.
When people come out and tell their stories, they start realizing this is not an isolated case. Observation and realization of other people’s progress can be a great source of motivation and commitment to be a part of the change.
Repair Relationships and Build Support
Addiction is not only a problem of the individual, but it is a problem of the family as well. The failure of relationships may cause problems in long-term relationships due to the lack of trust, communication, and emotional distance. That is why family therapy is a core part of this addiction treatment process.
In these sessions, family members are part of the procedures, and they are advised by competent therapists. The aim is to restore communication, solve disputes, and teach the family about recovery and addiction. The issue of family involvement is important, as it allows everyone to define their roles and duties in the future.
Aftercare Support to Long-Term Recovery
When the rehab program is completed, this is not the end of the road. Many of them start reverting to bad practices unless there is sustained guidance. IRCL offers aftercare to its patients to ensure that they continue their gains after leaving the facility.
The aftercare is usually composed of follow-up counselling, related to mental health check-ups, and lifestyle lessons. The sessions handle emerging issues, observe emotional well-being.
The patients are also advised to stay connected socially, spiritually, and on a healthy routine, besides pursuing personal agendas. Although aftercare is not required, it is very critical in lowering the relapse rates and stability during months and years of treatment.
Signs That Require Professional Help
Not all people using cannabis become dependent, although it is possible to become dependent on it in the course of long-term use or in cases where one regularly uses large amounts of it.
The following signs suggest that professional cannabis addiction treatment may be necessary:
- Using cannabis every day to relax is normal
- Withdrawal effects in trying to quit
- Dissipation of interest in hobbies, family, or work
- Cannabis-induced anxiety, depression, or paranoia
- Problems with sleeping or concentrating
- Unsuccessful pass attempts to quit or cut it down
If a person identifies these symptoms in time, they can avoid causing more severe psychological damage to an individual. He can also re-establish emotional well-being on time before the addiction issue worsens.
What Makes IRCL’s Treatment Program Effective?
It uses a logical, substantial plan that does not just meet international treatment culture but also takes into consideration cultural and local needs. It provides a proper treatment plan according to his or her medical history, the level of addiction, and emotional well-being.
The unit is armed with a medical watch, psychological support, and a calm healing environment. Psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and the support staff are well-trained to deal with cannabis cases.
FAQs
What makes cannabis addictive?
The effects of cannabis include the enhancement of dopamine and a change in emotion. It causes psychological dependence, as the brain becomes accustomed to experiencing relaxation or stress relief over time.
Can cannabis withdrawal be dangerous?
The withdrawal symptoms are not always life-threatening, but they involve a lot of discomfort, such as anxiety, mood swings, insomnia, and restlessness. It is advisable to use a supervised detox.
How long does cannabis addiction treatment last?
Treatment takes a different time. The short-term programs can be less than 4 weeks up to 6 weeks, whereas recovery, inclusive of the required aftercare, can last several months.