Cannabis detox

Despite popular belief, quitting cannabis, commonly known as marijuana or weed, is rarely a walk in the park. Some people do not even believe that cannabis can be addictive, and this misunderstanding can cause users to underestimate the significant challenges they might face when trying to stop. Cannabis detox is the initial phase of the recovery process, a period of physical and psychological adjustments that can be difficult but necessary. However, with a comprehensive approach, cannabis detox can be your launchpad towards a healthier life free from cannabis addiction.

What is cannabis detox?

Cannabis detox (also known as marijuana or weed detox) refers to cleansing your body of THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol), the primary psychoactive compound found in cannabis. Cannabis detox is necessary because, during prolonged usage, THC builds up in the body’s fat cells and remains in your system even after stopping. A dependence on cannabis forms when the body adapts to this regular presence of the drug, leading to tolerance and cannabis withdrawal symptoms when use ceases. Prolonged use of cannabis affects the brain’s endocannabinoid system, which regulates various functions such as mood, sleep and appetite. Over time, the body begins to rely on cannabis to feel normal, leading to dependence.

Cannabis detox is crucial because it breaks this physical dependence. By abstaining from cannabis until all the THC is gone, your body can adjust and learn to function again without it. During detox, you may experience various cannabis withdrawal symptoms as your body readjusts. However, a professional detox programme can manage these symptoms and offer the support you need to cope.

What are common marijuana withdrawal symptoms?

The physical and psychological changes your body undergoes during marijuana detox can manifest as various marijuana withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms can vary in intensity and duration from person to person, so it’s important to follow the advice of professional clinics like Oasis Runcorn, which can make your drug detox seamless.

Here are some common symptoms you might experience during marijuana detox:

• Irritability: With the removal of THC, your brain’s chemistry begins to readjust. This process might make you feel irritable or short-tempered. Simple tasks may frustrate you, and you might find it difficult to control your temper. These feelings can be strong but temporary and will ease as your brain chemistry returns to its normal state.
• Insomnia: Marijuana withdrawal often brings with it disturbances in sleep patterns, and you may find it hard to fall asleep or stay asleep. You may also experience unusually vivid dreams or nightmares. These disturbances can be taxing, but they indicate that your brain is relearning to regulate sleep without the influence of marijuana.
• Anxiety: During marijuana detox, you may experience worry, restlessness or fear. These feelings can range from mild unease to full-blown panic attacks. It is important to remember that these feelings are part of the body’s response to the absence of a substance it has become accustomed to.
• Depression: It’s common to feel sadness or lack of motivation during marijuana detox. These feelings can be disheartening, but they are a typical part of marijuana withdrawal and will fade over time as your brain chemistry normalises.
• Headaches: These can occur during the first few days of marijuana detox. Though uncomfortable, they are a sign that your body is adjusting to the absence of THC.
• Changes in appetite: You may also find that your appetite decreases during marijuana withdrawal. This shift can lead to weight loss and can be compounded by nausea some people experience.
• Physical discomfort: As your body purges THC, you may experience various forms of physical discomfort, such as stomach pain, shakiness, sweating and fever. While these marijuana withdrawal symptoms can be unpleasant, they are signs that your body is healing.

These symptoms might be challenging and discomforting, but they will lessen over time and can be managed more comfortably with the help of professional medical support.

How long does it take to detox from cannabis?

When detoxing from cannabis, it is important to understand that your cannabis withdrawal timeline may differ from somebody else’s. The duration of cannabis withdrawal can vary based on factors like the intensity and duration of use, your overall health status and your unique physiological response to withdrawal.

Here is a typical marijuana withdrawal timeline that can help you get an idea of what to expect:

• The first 24-72 hours: This initial phase is when cannabis withdrawal symptoms often begin. You may experience a sudden onset of irritability, anxiety and physical discomforts such as headaches. These symptoms emerge as your body starts adjusting to the absence of THC.
• The first week: The intensity of marijuana withdrawal symptoms often peaks during the first week. Insomnia can become more pronounced, and you might have unusually vivid dreams when you do manage to sleep. Feelings of depression and changes in appetite can also become more noticeable during this period.
• The following weeks: After the first week, the intensity of cannabis withdrawal symptoms should gradually decrease. You may still experience mood swings, occasional sleep disturbances and cravings, but these should become less severe as your body adjusts to life without cannabis.
• A few months post-detox: For some individuals, mild withdrawal symptoms may persist for a few months, including sporadic cravings and mood disturbances. This extended withdrawal period is called ‘Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS). It’s essential to have coping strategies to deal with these prolonged symptoms, such as ongoing therapy and support.

Remember that this cannabis withdrawal timeline should be a guide, not a rigid framework. Remember, each stage of the marijuana withdrawal process marks a step towards recovery, and with professional support, you can navigate through these stages more effectively.

Cannabis detox at Oasis Runcorn

At Oasis Runcorn, we offer a comprehensive inpatient cannabis detox programme. As an inpatient, you will reside at our facility during cannabis detox, providing a safe, cannabis-free environment with 24/7 professional medical support. Our process begins with a full medical assessment and a carefully monitored cannabis detox plan that suits your needs. Our team of healthcare professionals will closely monitor your progress and provide medical interventions as necessary to manage marijuana withdrawal symptoms.

In addition to cannabis detox, Oasis Runcorn offers a simultaneous drug rehab programme. This unique approach combines physical detoxification with psychological rehab therapy and support groups, helping you understand the root cause of your condition while equipping you with the tools necessary to maintain long-term recovery. This multi-faceted approach ensures that your dependency is addressed comprehensively, creating a strong foundation for lasting recovery.

Weed detox myths and the truth behind them

Understanding the truth about cannabis detox is vital, but unfortunately, many misconceptions often prevent individuals from seeking help. These myths can distort the reality of recovery and create unnecessary barriers. Let’s tackle these common misconceptions head-on:

Myth: I can detox from weed on my own…

Many believe they can navigate the cannabis detox process alone, but this can lead to complications and a higher risk of relapse. Detoxing from weed can be very difficult, but professional medical support can make the weed detox process safer, more comfortable and more likely to result in long-term recovery.

Myth: Weed detox is enough for recovery…

While detox is a critical first step, it is only part of recovery. Full recovery also involves therapy to address the underlying causes of drug addiction and lifestyle changes to support a weed-free life.

Myth: Cannabis withdrawal symptoms are too severe to handle…

While cannabis withdrawal symptoms can be uncomfortable, they are manageable, especially with professional support. Remember, cannabis withdrawal symptoms are temporary and signify the body’s recovery, so communicate regularly with your cannabis detox team and allow them to guide you through the process.

Myth: I don’t need weed detox if I’m a casual user…

Even casual or recreational weed use can lead to addiction over time, so it is better to act sooner rather than later. If you’re finding it difficult to stop, detoxing from weed may be beneficial.

Myth: Detox centres are cold and uninviting…

The portrayal of detox centres as bleak, cold institutions is misleading. Modern centres like Oasis Runcorn offer a warm, inviting and supportive environment, providing a comfortable space for recovery.

How to start cannabis detox

Embarking on the journey to recovery begins with a single step. At Oasis Runcorn, we are ready to guide you through the cannabis detox process and help you begin the healing process. Contact us today to discuss your options, and let’s start this journey together.

Frequently asked questions