In the early 1960s, Marijuana and alcohol were among the most frequently abused drugs because of their inhibition and depressant properties. Their addictive qualities make these substances highly desirable among users and cause significant distortions in perception, memory loss, increased heart rate and loss of motor coordination. When individuals abuse Marijuana, it can have a long lasting negative impact on their lives, which is why pot counseling should be sought for effective outcomes.
Most Used
Recent statistics have indicated that the illicit drug remains the most commonly used mind altering substance in the United States. Some the signs of dependency to this drug include increased tolerance and severe mood swings. These symptoms indicate an individual’s need for help where this drug is concerned. This is also the cases when it is used over an extended period in large doses. Mild to heavy use includes the symptoms of increased anxiety, sleep disturbance and fluctuations in appetite upon withdrawal.
Dependency
Dependency is characterized by an increase in craving for the substance during periods of abstinence with fluctuation in mood. Research has found that adults who use the drug more than once a week are at increased risk for developing dependence. Almost all of these individuals have met the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual for dependence and substance abuse and would benefit from appropriate treatment.
Affects
Those who do not seek treatment for their illicit drug use have increased reports of impaired concentration, memory, motivation, relationships, finances and positions of employment. Due to the nature of the psychological, physical and social addictive properties, many people find it difficult to seek assistance. A result of these addictive properties means that several types of interventions are necessary which include cognitive, behavioral and motivational aspects.
Counseling
Counseling services are geared towards assisting substance abusers with recovery during increased tolerance and intense withdrawal. Tolerance occurs when there is an increased need to ingest a higher amount of the drug to experience the same level of intoxication. During the rehabilitative process, the relationship formed with the counselor is the most important for successful outcomes.
Relationships
The relationship between a substance abuser and a counselor will form a solid foundation for the future progression of treatment outcomes. A drug abuser will be counseled on an individual basis with rehabilitative techniques tailored to personal circumstance. These sessions aim to identify the reasons for continued use of the drug and the potential triggers in the environment that are preventing the patient from eliminating the substance from their life.
One-on-One
Initial sessions with a detoxification counselor focus on one-on-one interaction. During this period, trust is established and the user is provided with tools to incorporate into daily life for a successful recovery. The most important aspect of sessions is the relationship between the abuser and counselor.
