Teen marijuana abuse treatment in Los Angeles
According to the table published by the University of Michigan, an estimated 7.1% of 8th graders, 17.3% of 10th graders, and 30.5% of 12th graders reported using cannabis/hashish in 2021. Despite the government’s stern regulatory measures regarding the sale of marijuana and other substances, teen cannabis abuse in California is at an all time high. Teen marijuana use can lead to an array of negative consequences, so it’s important for parents to understand signs of teen marijuana addiction.
Table of Contents
What is Teen Marijuana Addiction?
Teen marijuana addiction refers to a condition in which a teenager becomes a frequent user and dependent on marijuana, despite the adverse effects. When teens are addicted to marijuana, they increase the amount they smoke and the frequency at which they smoke, making their bodies tolerant.
This condition can disorient the normal functioning of the body and hinder brain development. The risk and extent of teen marijuana dependence are measured on the basis of dosage, frequency, and potency of the marijuana smoked. Taking marijuana in liquid, wax, and solid forms increases the chances of addiction to smoking marijuana because the concentrates of THC are much higher.
How Does Teen Marijuana Addiction Occur?
Teen marijuana addiction is a complex process that involves tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabinoid receptors in the brain. When a teenager uses marijuana, the THC activates the brain receptors, improving mood and pleasure. Long-term teenage marijuana use increases the brain’s dependence on the drug, making adolescents experience an uncontrollable craving for marijuana, leading to compulsive use.
Start Your Teen’s Recovery from Marijuana Abuse
If your teen is struggling with marijuana use, Key Healthcare is here to help. Our specialized treatment program is designed to address the unique needs of adolescents, providing the tools and support needed for lasting recovery. Contact us today to take the first step toward a healthier future.
Signs of Marijuana Use in Teenagers
There are many warning signs of marijuana use in teens. These signs and symptoms can be divided into physical, cognitive, behavioral, and psychological side effects. While these are the most common signs, it’s important to remember that marijuana can affect teens differently depending on the strain and potency.
Bloodshot Eyes
Marijuana dilates blood capillaries in the eyes, leading to low pressure. The dilated blood capillaries cause more blood to flow into the eyes.
Increased Hunger
Marijuana addiction activates ghrelin and anandamide hormones, which cause feelings of starvation and increased appetite.
Difficulty Thinking and Poor Memory
Marijuana addiction impairs the prefrontal cortex, cerebrum, and temporal lobe in the brain, leading to cognitive difficulties and short-term memory loss.
Fear and Paranoia
Some teens develop paranoia when they are addicted to marijuana. For example, they might hallucinate that police are chasing them.
Dissociation
Dissociation is a common psychological symptom of teen marijuana addiction. It is characterized by derealization, amnesia, identity confusion, and depersonalization.
Mood Swings and Irritability
Teens may experience sudden shifts in their attitude and emotional state. They may also become easily frustrated, angry or hostile for no apparent reason.
Our goal in developing Key Healthcare was to create programs that gave teens the guidance they needed to draw on their strengths and realize their potential to live fulfilling happy lives. Based on our own experiences, we believe that everyone has the ability to change if given the proper structure and connection
Ryan Blivas & Evan Powell
Founders of Key Healthcare
Teen Marijuana Abuse Treatment in Los Angeles, CA
There are many ways to help your teenager stop using marijuana. A majority of the time, adolescents will use marijuana to cope with their mental health issues. This is why Key Healthcare provides dual diagnosis teen marijuana addiction treatment to treat both the mental health condition and substance abuse. We develop individualized treatment plans to ensure long-term recovery for your child. If you are interested in learning more about our teen marijuana abuse treatment options, contact us today.
Intensive Outpatient Treatment (IOP)
Our adolescent intensive outpatient program for marijuana addiction takes place 9 hours per week over the course of 4-12 weeks. During an IOP, your teen will participate in therapy sessions that help them work through the reasons for marijuana use.
Partial Hospitalization Treatment (PHP)
Our PHP treatment for teens marijuana addiction takes place 8 hours per day, 5 days a week, for 3-4 weeks. Teens will attend therapy sessions where they will develop the coping skills needed to stop using marijuana and treat underlying mental health issues.
Teen Residential Treatment Program
Our teen residential treatment program is a 45–60 day program where adolescents receive the highest level of care, with 24/7 support. Designed for teens facing mental health and substance use challenges, the program includes evidence-based therapies, academic support, and activities to promote healing and long-term growth.
Individual and Group Therapy
We utilize a variety of adolescent individual therapies and adolescent group therapies to treat mental health conditions and dual diagnosis marijuana abuse, including cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavior, and acceptance and commitment therapy. During sessions, teens will learn coping skills and how to process their emotions.
It might feel like a big step, but remember why you're here—you’re looking for a way forward.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Get in touch with Key Healthcare to learn how our teen-focused mental health and addiction treatment programs can support your family. Our compassionate team is here to answer your questions, guide you through the admissions process, and help your teen take the first step toward lasting recovery.
If you are ready to get help for your child, we are here to help. Feel free to call us, email, or fill out our contact form to get started today. You can also verify your insurance to begin the process.
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Take the first step by verifying your insurance today and find out what coverage options are available for your family. Our team will review your benefits and help you understand how to access the care your teen needs.
Medical Reviewer
Dr. Elnaz Mayeh PhD, LMFT
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Call today for a confidential conversation with a teen treatment specialist—we’re here to help.
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Share Program
Is your teen struggling?
Call today for a confidential conversation with a teen treatment specialist—we’re here to help.
Programs
Substance Abuse
Check Insurance
Check if your insurance will cover the cost of treatment.
"*" indicates required fields
- Your information is secure & protected by HIPPA.
Check Insurance
Check if your insurance will cover the cost of treatment.
"*" indicates required fields
- Your information is secure & protected by HIPPA.