Cannabis has long carried the notion that it is harmless. Especially among the younger generations who use it without much thought about the consequences. And contrary to what you might think, the drug’s usage hasn’t stopped during the pandemic.
If anything, it has increased as a measure people take to cope with the growing uncertainty about their financial and health security. So, how do we tackle this growing problem?
The first step is realizing there is a problem. We have to acknowledge the fact cannabis is a drug, and prolonged usage has consequences. Once we understand there is a danger to high-potency cannabis usage, we can realize there is a problem and with enough will, start using cognitive behavioural therapy for substance abuse.
The Dangers Behind Cannabis Abuse
Before we talk about symptoms we have a few serious issues concerning cannabis. The first one is that cannabis is easily accessible and the second that it is fairly inexpensive. Only 20 euros a week would be enough for you to experience the negative effects of cannabis abuse. And weekly usage is enough to make you addicted.
Furthermore, the amount of THC in cannabis has increased over the years. In 2000 the average amount of THC was 6%, most of the cannabis produced and consumed today has around 16% of THC.
However, the drug is equally accessible, even for younger people, the prices haven’t changed much, or if they have, they did with the moving economy, and the general opinion hasn’t changed at all. People in Ireland still consider cannabis harmless.
Now we come to the real danger, especially during the last “lockdown” year, when more and more people resorted to cannabis as a way to cope with the uncertain reality. Prolonged cannabis abuse results in mood changes, often anxiety, irritation, and anger. Especially during the withdrawal period.
Cannabis is especially damaging to young adolescent minds because it can affect the way their minds work, diminishing their ability to learn problem-solving and social skills.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Substance Abuse
When we talk about cognitive behavioural therapy for substance abuse we talk about discovering the thoughts and emotional reasons behind your behaviour. Sure, the seemingly never-ending lockdown and uncertainty surrounding the pandemic take a huge toll on everyone’s mental health.
However, there is usually more behind the scenes. And using CBT combined with Reality Therapy you can identify the thoughts and feelings that push you to seek protection and comfort from a substance such as cannabis.
But the same logic can be applied to any substance. CBT therapy can help you look at your life with greater clarity and learn how to make better, healthier choices that bring positive changes to your life.
If you are looking for cognitive behavioural therapy for substance abuse or you are not sure but you know you need help regarding your mental health, you can always contact me here or call me on 086 3835910, I am here to help you help yourself.