Treatment for Cannabis (Marijuana) Addiction
What is Cannabis Addiction?
Marijuana – also known as ‘weed’, ‘pot’ or ‘tea’ – is made from the cannabis plant. In most cases, people smoke or ingest marijuana, often baking it into treats like brownies or cookies, or mixing it in with tea. When marijuana enters the body, it produces feelings of pleasurable relaxation thanks to the chemical THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which can be found in the plant’s leaves.
A common side effect of THC is the feeling of euphoria. Because of this pleasurable feeling, it can be extremely common for people to misuse marijuana and develop an addiction. Like any addiction, marijuana misuse can cause tremendous damage to a person’s life, and in most cases, it can also be all but impossible to overcome without professional help.
At Camino Recovery, we recognise the slippery slope of overusing marijuana. We understand that what can begin as harmless fun can quickly turn into a dependency that causes more issues than enjoyment.
Marijuana is a dangerous and often misrepresented drug, and consequently, we provide comprehensive treatment that gives those who are struggling with cannabis misuse the chance to reclaim their lives and strive for long-term sobriety.

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Fahd SH30/04/2025Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. This retreat isn’t just a luxury escape—it’s an investment in yourself. It’s the real deal. It’s not always easy, and at times it’s uncomfortable, because growth rarely comes without challenge. But if you’re ready to do the inner work, there’s no better place to start. The digital detox was one of the most powerful parts for me. Stepping away from the constant buzz of phones, messages, and social media gave me the clarity to really listen—to myself. No distractions, no filters, just truth. The environment was safe, peaceful, and supportive, with every detail—from the food to the workshops—designed to help you dig deeper and reset. The team behind it genuinely cares and it shows in everything they do. Being there is something you do when you’re ready to elevate—when you want more from life, from yourself. It’s hard to put into words how much I’ve taken away from this experience, but I know I left lighter, stronger, and more aligned. Show up for yourself. You won’t regret it. Colin Salsbury16/04/2025Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. What a life changing experience. I was lost and in danger of losing everything due to my unhealthy and destructive relationship with alcohol . I needed help and the wonderful staff at Camino were there for me. They helped me to understand the root causes of my addiction and behaviours. I am now in recovery and living the life I should have lived before. I cannot thank them enough and I am incredibly grateful for their dedication and ongoing support to maintain my now rewarding , fulfilling and happy life. Harry Findlay14/04/2025Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Life-changing in every way possible. I spent 10 weeks here, and it was a massive shock to the system. It provided me with the tools to cope with my dysfunctional life. I arrived a broken man at my wits' end and left on the pathway to a much better life. Using the tools I learnt here, I have been able to manage the tricky problems we face, which previously would have derailed me and left me in a pit of sorrow pain and addiction. Simply, I owe my life to this center. Ameet is the most wonderfully gifted man whom I will always cherish having had the pleasure of knowing and spending time with. All the other staff were fantastic, with the exception of Nadia who left while I was there. It was both the hardest and the best thing I have ever done. It's hard to put into words, really. H Rachael Keates19/03/2025Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Coming from a mother's point of view, I was desperate as my son had heavy addictions. It took 6 months for him to enter Camino Recovery. Mier was there for me prior to him entering. I cannot thank her enough for her support and patience. Once he entered Camino, I could breathe again. He was in the hands of Amit and a beautiful team/family in Camino. My son has regained his life and his light. Camino has lead all of us on a path of healing, education on addiction, and co-dependancy. I am forever grateful and I highly recommend Camino. Glenn18/03/2025Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. As a parent, I can’t recommend them enough. The level of care, empathy and expertise was amazing and helped a family member through a very tough time. Not only is it the on site services, but calls we had and also the follow up afterwards - super team. I’d give 10 stars if it was possible. Pierre Wingfield07/10/2024Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. This is an amazing place run by amazing people, it changed my life immeasurably and going was the best decision I ever made. There's not much more to say than that. Also that any rehab / trauma centre will have 1 star reviews as the people who go are very unwell and the methods are tough, having your emotional crutches taken away etc. These methods were also totally necessary and healing in my case. I can't say for sure but I would guess that most of the people who had a bad time left early before the process had time to work for them, I saw a few instances of that during my time here. If you can stick at it though it's beyond transformative. I look back at my time in Camino with tons of fondness :) Mary Minas16/05/2024Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Camino has been an incredible and life-changing experience for me. I was dealing with major depression and through the care of the very experienced team, I have been able to take steps forward to the next phase of my life. Before arriving, Camino were consistently recommended to me by different experts I reached out to, and since being there I can confirm their treatment gets to the core of addiction, codependency, and trauma, which had been tricky for me to find anywhere else in Europe. I'd also like to add that the support staff and admin team were brilliant, and made the stay as easy as it could be whilst doing challenging work. Sofia Guy08/04/2024Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. What an unforgettable experience and one that I will always hold dear to my heart. I had the privilege of being invited to Spain to witness the Family Week organised by Camino Recovery Treatment Centre for their clients and their families as part of their comprehensive treatment program. While I have spent the past year studying the importance of involving families in the recovery process, this was my first opportunity to witness it first hand. From the moment the families arrived on Monday morning to Friday afternoon, I was deeply moved by the transformation I had witnessed. Many of these families have endured years of anguish, grappling with feelings of shame and helplessness as they struggled to support their loved ones through their journey to recovery. Witnessing their journey from despair to hope, isolation to connection has left me profoundly moved. While it's evident that there is still much work to be done within these family dynamics even after their time at Camino, I have seen the seeds of a new beginning being sown. Parents and spouses have left the week armed with hope, trust and self-awareness. Having personally witnessed the transformative power of this Family Week and the Equine Therapy that Camino offers and having heard directly from clients and their families about their experiences at Camino, I wholeheartedly recommend Camino Recovery to anyone struggling with long-term mental health issues or addiction. My time at Camino has been eye-opening and inspirational. The dedication of the team the effectiveness of the programs, and the profound impact on the lives of clients and their families make Camino Recovery a beacon of hope in the field of addiction and mental health treatment. Thank you so much for letting me experience the wonderful work that you do!! Paul Willcox07/04/2024Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I cannot recommend this place highly enough. The change I have seen in a family member has been profound, and it has been achieved by systematic exploration of the root causes of problems, and not by simply treating the symptoms If you are lucky enough to have the opportunity to join this programme, grab itGoogle rating score: 4.4 of 5, based on 25 reviews
Is cannabis really addictive?
According to the National Institute of Drug Abuse, people who begin using marijuana before the age of 18 are four to seven times more likely to develop a marijuana use disorder than adults.
There are many myths that surround the use of marijuana. For example, many people claim that marijuana use is harmless and not addictive and that it causes no lasting effects on the body. However, as with many drugs (especially legalised drugs like cigarettes and alcohol), there are always lasting effects on the body from overuse.
Overusing marijuana can cause dependency issues, and as with everything, it can result in a psychological tolerance in the body, meaning that you need to increase the dosage to achieve the same effects.
If you regularly use cannabis and experience withdrawal symptoms and cravings for the drug when you are not using it, this could be a sign that you have developed a cannabis addiction.
What are the signs and symptoms of marijuana addiction?
There are many signs and symptoms of marijuana addiction, but these can vary from person to person, and often, these symptoms can be ignored or passed off as something else.
For example, memory problems can be put down to the general ageing in a person, when in fact, it is a direct symptom of marijuana overuse. Recognising this, however, can be difficult.
Behaviourally speaking, there are many symptoms to watch out for, including:
- Frequent, unexplained absences from work or school
- Declining performance at work or in school
- Losing interest in activities or events that were previously significant
- Lying, secrecy or other forms of deception involving whereabouts and/or activities
- Possessing rolling papers, water pipes and other paraphernalia related to cannabis use
- Using cannabis when it is clearly dangerous to do so, such as prior to driving a car
The short-term symptoms of marijuana can be both positive and negative, depending on the person in question. Feeling relaxed and positive, however, is why the drug is so prevalent across the U.K., the U.S. and other parts of the world.
In the long-term, however, the use of marijuana is a different story.
Short-Term Effects
- Relaxed and positive mood
- Become more talkative and prone to fits of laughter
- Exaggerated feelings of hunger, otherwise known as 'the munchies'
- Amplified senses such as observing intensely vivid colours
- Feeling as though time has slowed down
- Memory problems
- Feeling sleepy and lethargic
- Feelings of confusion and panic
- Paranoia and anxiety
- Hallucinations
LONG-TERM effects
- Depression
- Confusion and forgetfulness
- Anxiety and paranoia
- Increased risk of developing mental health conditions such as schizophrenia and psychosis
- Existing mental health problems can be worsened, while medication may not work as well while smoking cannabis
People who smoke or ingest marijuana should do so with these short- and long-term effects at the front of their minds. While the feeling of relaxation can be an attractive reason to use marijuana, it can quickly cause dependency issues, whereby a person can’t function without using it daily.
This, in and of itself, is an addiction that must be treated sooner rather than later.
What are the treatment options for marijuana addiction?
If you’ve had a negative experience with marijuana but you can’t seem to stop using it, it might be time to consider treatment.
There are many ways to treat marijuana overuse.
Start with a free confidential marijuana addiction assessment. Camino Recovery is known worldwide for its expert treatment for drug addiction, and marijuana is no exception. Start with this assessment and understand how we can help you tailor your treatment so that you can return to leading a happy, healthy and marijuana-free life.
Rid your body of marijuana in a safe and monitored space at Camino Recovery. We can assist you in detoxing from marijuana and help you avoid using in the future, too.
Often, people will become dependent on marijuana to escape problems that exist in their reality that they don’t want to face. Our group and individual therapy programmes let you explore these issues with an expert in a safe environment. By uprooting your cause for marijuana overuse, you can overcome your dependency.
Our family support programme runs over four or five days, during which you will have the chance to meet with your loved one’s therapists and participate in process groups and educational sessions.
During this time, you will learn more about family systems, boundaries, communication and the best ways to support your family member in their marijuana recovery.
In most cases, true recovery from something like marijuana overuse requires a completely fresh start, in a completely new place. Our holistic therapies help you channel positive energy that encourages self-care. Treatments include:
- Yoga
- Massages
- Mindfulness meditation
- Energy work
- Nutrition and exercise
- Taekwondo
To help yourself or a loved one get the right treatment they need to overcome marijuana overuse, explore our range of treatments here and request a no obligation call with an expert to find out how we can help.
Frequently Asked Questions
The main chemical in marijuana is tetrahydrocannabinol, also known as THC. Although the effects of THC wear off within a few hours of ingesting marijuana, traces of the chemical can remain in the body for weeks.
Many times, you hear marijuana referred to as a ‘gateway drug’ to the ‘harder stuff’, but the question of ‘is marijuana addictive?’ is asked and debated probably more-so than that question involving any other drug. It’s true that weed is often the first stop for many people who are active addicts, or at least it was something that could have been true in the past.
Regular marijuana use has been linked to memory and relationship problems, poor mental and physical health, and a general sense of apathy. Short-term effects include:
• Learning, attention, and memory problems
• Distorted perception (sights, sounds, time, touch)
• Poor coordination
• Increased heart rate
• Anxiety or paranoia
• Psychosis (not common)
Some longer-term effects of marijuana use include:
• Risk of marijuana addiction
• Long-term learning and memory problems if heavy use begins during youth
• Risk for chronic cough, bronchitis
• Risk of schizophrenia in some people with higher genetic risk
• In rare cases, risk of recurrent episodes of severe nausea and vomiting
Someone who smokes marijuana regularly may have many of the same breathing and lung problems as people who smoke tobacco. For example, marijuana smokers can develop a daily cough or have a higher chance of getting a lung infection. Like tobacco smoke, marijuana smoke has a toxic mix of gases and tiny particles that can harm the lungs. Although we’re still learning if marijuana causes lung cancer, many people who smoke marijuana also smoke cigarettes, which do cause cancer. Also, smoking marijuana can make it harder to quit smoking cigarettes.
When you use marijuana you may think about the high you experience as a result, which can often include everything from paranoia to uncontrollable fits of laughter, but beyond the high that comes with the use of marijuana, what are the effects of this drug on the brain in the long-term?
To put it simply, scientists aren’t fully aware of exactly what the relationship between marijuana and the brain are in the long-term. Some studies – primarily in animals – have shown that when people have exposure to THC which is the psychoactive component of marijuana, it can cause changes in cognition and memory later on.
While there are no reports of someone dying directly from marijuana use, it can still cause serious health problems. Some people have psychotic reactions that can lead to dangerous behaviours. Others may have uncomfortable side-effects from marijuana, such as shaking, leading them to seek care in an emergency room (ER).