Marijuana Detox
Even though marijuana is often seen as low-risk, it can still become difficult to stop. If you’re concerned about your use—or someone you love—know that support is available. Reaching out for help is a strong, dignified step when cannabis begins to interfere with daily life, relationships, or health.
Cannabis use disorder (CUD) impacts millions across the U.S. At Oak Grove Recovery in Westerville, just outside Columbus, we provide evidence-based care that addresses the physical, emotional, and social aspects of dependence—helping you rebuild with dignity and recover with purpose. We proudly accept Medicaid and most major insurance plans, so cost is never a barrier to treatment.
Understanding marijuana addiction and dependence
Like other substances, marijuana can lead to dependence. Whether you began using recreationally, for stress relief, to help with sleep, or for pain management, it’s possible to quit—and you don’t have to do it alone. Many people feel discouraged if attempts to cut back don’t “stick” right away; this is common and not a reflection of character. Recovery is a learned skill set supported by compassionate, evidence-based care.
What is cannabis use disorder?
Cannabis use disorder occurs when cannabis use disrupts daily life. Common patterns include building tolerance, experiencing withdrawal, using more than planned, struggling to cut down, and continuing to use despite consequences at work, school, or home.
Research suggests roughly 3 in 10 people who use marijuana will develop CUD over time. This doesn’t mean someone is weak or lacks willpower—addiction is a chronic health condition influenced by multiple factors. High-potency products, frequent or daily use, a family history of addiction, early exposure during adolescence, trauma, and co-occurring mental health conditions can all increase risk.
The impact of marijuana on mental health
Many people initially turn to cannabis for relief from anxiety, insomnia, or trauma-related stress. Over time, however, dependence can worsen these concerns. Studies link CUD with higher rates of mood changes, anxiety, depression, and in some cases psychosis—especially with heavy, high-potency, or early-onset use. Because mental health and substance use influence each other, integrated treatment that addresses both together is often the most effective path forward.
Signs and symptoms of marijuana dependence
Dependence can show up across many areas of life:
- Physical: Appetite changes, sleep problems or vivid dreams, coughing or throat irritation, and red or irritated eyes.
- Emotional: Strong cravings (especially during stress), anxiety or low mood, irritability, and feeling less enjoyment or motivation without cannabis.
- Behavioral: Spending significant time obtaining, using, or recovering from cannabis; missing deadlines or social commitments; using even when it causes problems.
When cutting back, people often notice withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, restlessness, decreased appetite, sleep disruption or nightmares, headaches, sweating, and difficulty concentrating. These symptoms are temporary but can make quitting challenging without support.
Medical detox and withdrawal management
Most people with CUD do not require medical detox. However, for those managing multiple substances (polysubstance use) or significant mental health symptoms, a short detox stay can provide stabilization, safety, and structure before starting therapy.
Cannabis withdrawal symptoms
Withdrawal typically begins within 24–48 hours after stopping, peaks around days two to six, and gradually improves over two to three weeks. Common symptoms include sleep issues, vivid dreams, irritability, appetite changes, headaches, sweating, restlessness, and mood swings. While these symptoms are uncomfortable, they are usually not dangerous and can be managed with support.
Medical detox protocols for marijuana
For many, detox can be completed safely on an outpatient basis—especially with a supportive home environment. Others benefit from supervised care if symptoms are severe, if there’s co-use of alcohol or other substances, or if mental health needs are complex. In supervised settings, short-term, non-addictive medications may be used to ease insomnia, nausea, or anxiety so you can focus on recovery. Our team monitors vital signs, hydration, and mental health, centering comfort and dignity throughout.
Managing withdrawal safely and effectively
Self-care is an important part of withdrawal management. Hydration, balanced meals (even when appetite is low), daily movement, and consistent sleep routines help the body reset. Gentle relaxation practices—like deep breathing, mindfulness, or guided imagery—can reduce anxiety and improve sleep quality. We’ll provide practical strategies and encouragement, and we’ll help you build a plan for the first days and weeks after stopping.
Speak with our admissions team—Available 24/7
Evidence-based treatment options for marijuana use disorder
There are no FDA-approved medications specific to cannabis use disorder, but therapy is highly effective. Treatment focuses on developing coping skills, restructuring routines, and building a support network that makes abstinence—or significant reduction—sustainable.
Behavioral therapies for addiction
Our licensed clinicians use proven approaches tailored to your goals:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): Identify triggers, challenge unhelpful thoughts, and build practical coping skills for stress, boredom, conflict, or social pressure.
- Motivational interviewing (MI): Explore your personal reasons for change, strengthen commitment, and resolve ambivalence in a respectful, collaborative way.
- Relapse prevention planning: Map high-risk situations, early warning signs, and step-by-step responses; develop a personalized toolkit you can use anywhere.
Peer support is a powerful complement to therapy. Programs like Marijuana Anonymous and SMART Recovery offer community, accountability, and encouragement from people who understand what you’re going through.
Inpatient rehab vs. outpatient treatment
Outpatient care is sufficient for many people with CUD, allowing you to continue work, school, and family responsibilities while attending therapy. For those who need additional structure—or who are also addressing other substances or mental health concerns—residential treatment can provide 24/7 support, daily therapy, medication management when appropriate, and a consistent routine away from triggers.
At Oak Grove Recovery, our inpatient program emphasizes safety, compassionate support, and whole-person care. If outpatient services are more appropriate or needed after residential care, we’ll connect you with trusted community providers to ensure continuity.
Choosing the right approach
Together, we’ll consider your level of dependence, history of relapse, mental and physical health, home environment, and support system. Your care plan may include individual therapy, group therapy, and psychoeducation. We’ll revisit the plan regularly and adjust as your needs evolve, staying focused on what works best for you.
Addressing co-occurring disorders in marijuana treatment
Mental health and marijuana use
Many people with CUD also experience moderate to severe mental health concerns, and more than half may have another substance use disorder. Whether cannabis was used to cope with existing symptoms or contributed to new ones, integrated care helps break the cycle where each problem fuels the other.
Integrated treatment approaches
We coordinate care among therapists, psychiatrists, and addiction specialists to support the whole person. Your personalized plan might include therapy for depression or anxiety, trauma-informed care, sleep hygiene coaching, and, when appropriate, non-addictive medications to stabilize mood or sleep. Family therapy can also play a key role in rebuilding trust and strengthening support at home.
Harm reduction and relapse prevention strategies
Recovery is not one-size-fits-all. Some people begin with harm reduction—reducing the frequency or intensity of use—before moving to abstinence. Others commit to stopping entirely from day one. We’ll meet you where you are and support your goals.
Developing a relapse prevention plan
A strong plan identifies personal triggers (people, places, times of day, emotions), outlines coping strategies, and sets up accountability. Your plan may include: scheduling support group meetings, creating a bedtime routine, using urge-surfing techniques, planning alternative activities for high-risk times, enlisting trusted friends or family, and knowing when and how to ask for help. We also help you practice these skills in session so they feel natural when you need them.
Harm reduction techniques
If abstinence isn’t your first step, practical strategies can reduce risk: choosing lower-THC products, reducing dose or frequency, avoiding use before driving or work, setting time limits and “no-use” zones, and tracking use patterns with a journal or app. Many people find that as stability grows, they feel ready to commit to full sobriety.
Resources and support for marijuana dependence
Addiction counseling services
Licensed clinicians lead individual and group sessions centered on your strengths and goals. We address underlying factors—like stress, trauma, sleep, and relationships—and build practical skills for everyday life. When residential treatment ends, our commitment doesn’t: we provide detailed aftercare planning, educational materials, and trusted referrals so you feel supported for the long term.
Support groups for marijuana users
Addiction is isolating; recovery is relational. Peer programs like Marijuana Anonymous, SMART Recovery, and community-based groups provide connection, perspective, and hope. We’ll help you find meetings that fit your schedule and preferences, including virtual options when transportation is a barrier
Medical marijuana and legal issues
Legal and workplace considerations
- Recreational (non‐medical) marijuana was legalized more recently in Ohio (Issue 2), but legal protections for medical users in workplaces remain limited.
- Ohio law does not require employers to accommodate medical marijuana use; they may refuse to hire, terminate, or discipline employees who test positive—even with a valid prescription.
- Employers may enforce drug-free or zero‑tolerance policies, conduct drug testing, and treat medical marijuana like other controlled substances in employment decisions.
- Driving under the influence of marijuana remains illegal under Ohio’s OVI (Operating a Vehicle Impaired) statute. Specific drugged‑driving “per se” limits define how much THC or its metabolites in blood or urine constitute an offense, even if the driver shows no other signs of impairment.
Begin marijuana addiction treatment at Oak Grove Recovery
Healing starts with reaching out. Oak Grove Recovery offers individualized, evidence-based care for marijuana addiction in Westerville, Ohio. Speak with our admissions team—available 24/7—to take the first step toward recovery with dignity and purpose. We’ll listen, answer your questions, verify benefits, and help you determine the level of care that fits your needs. Call 614.324.8137 or contact us online.
Frequently asked questions
CUD is diagnosed when cannabis use continues despite negative impacts. A qualified mental health professional assesses symptoms and severity (mild, moderate, or severe) and recommends a level of care. Using cannabis during adolescence or young adulthood increases the risk of developing CUD.
“Excessive” looks different for everyone. Warning signs include using more often or in greater amounts than intended; needing cannabis to relax, sleep, or socialize; neglecting responsibilities; or using despite problems with health, school, work, or relationships. If you’re wondering whether it’s too much, that’s a helpful signal to talk with someone.
Some people quit on their own, especially with strong social support and structured routines. If you’ve tried to cut back without success, have been using heavily or daily, or have co-occurring mental health concerns, professional treatment can make a meaningful difference and reduce relapse risk.
Healthy options include mindfulness or breathing exercises, yoga or light movement, time outdoors, creative hobbies, warm baths or showers before bed, and connecting with supportive people. We’ll help you test and personalize strategies until you find a toolkit that works for you.
Treatment typically combines therapy (CBT, MI, ACT), peer support, skills practice, and lifestyle changes that support sleep, nutrition, movement, and stress management. For people with co-occurring conditions or polysubstance use, integrated care and, when appropriate, non-addictive medications may be part of the plan. Our goal is to help you create a life that feels meaningful and sustainable in recovery.
