Signs of Marijuana Abuse

Aside from alcohol, Marijuana is the most commonly abused drug in our society. Which is why it is so important to know the signs of marijuana abuse. Known by many names: pot, weed, dope and grass, marijuana is also known as the first illegal drug kids typically take. It’s easy to buy, doesn’t cost much and is relatively predictable and safe to use compared with hard drugs like cocaine and heroin.

Many have called for the legalization of marijuana. They argue that smoking marijuana is no worse than drinking alcohol. Perhaps that’s true. But that argument rings hollow. Smoking marijuana may be no worse for the  body and mind than drinking alcohol, but it still harms both. That alcohol similarly harms both is no justification for legalization.

 But another reason to debar marijuana exists. It’s the most common gateway drug. A gateway drug is less powerful and therefore less harmful but does it’s damage by leading a user to try and then to abuse more powerful and harmful drugs. Generally speaking, drug addicts smoke marijuana when they’re young and graduate to more harmful drugs like meth, cocaine, crack and heroin when they “grow up”.

One of the common misconceptions about marijuana is that it mellows one’s temper. In the 1960’s it was a symbol of the Peace Movement. The image and the symbol are false and misplaced. Marijuana smokers are more prone to violent, aggressive behavior; more apt to cause trouble at school and more apt to destroy property there. Its peace and love image belies marijuana’s real nature.

Marijuana injures the world body and our collective peace of mind even more. Rival drug gangs battle each other in Mexico for trafficking rights and leave in their wake a death and destruction including the loss of many innocent lives.

Contrary to popular belief, marijuana is not harmless.

Smoking or ingesting Marijuana leads to health, social and learning problems, particularly now that it’s so much more potent. Though not physically addictive, marijuana use can lead to a psychological dependence which is why you must know the signs of marijuana abuse.

Signs of Marijuana Abuse

If you suspect someone you love is abusing marijuana, watch for these signs of marijuana abuse.

Marijuana abuser’s physical appearance

• Irritated or bloodshot eyes.
• Dazed, expressionless countenance.
•  “Cotton mouth” or dry lips.
• A strong odor of grass or burnt rope on the person or their clothing.

A Marijuana abuser’s mannerisms or behavior

• Walks about in a daze or euphoric stupor.
• Emotionless. Carefree “whatever” kind of attitude.
• Stares into space or at nothing at all.
• Laughs in fits even if there’s no good reason to laugh.
• Washes clothes immediately when arriving home.
• Showers first before getting around others.
• Eats and snacks a lot do to having the “munchies”.

What you may find lying about or hidden in the house

• “Blunt” cigars
• Rolling papers
• Larger bags with leafy residue or seeds in them
• Small pipes
• Bongs

When you suspect someone you love is abusing marijuana, watch for a tendency for them to refrain from conversation and face-to-face meetings. This is one of the common signs of marijuana abuse.  Note behavior particularly if there’s a dramatic change in character from how they typically are. The signs of drug abuse and drug addiction can be and will be explained away by the person using the drugs. Don’t rationalize or excuse away these signs. If you do, you very well may find the person becomes hooked on harsher drugs which will require professional help from a Georgia drug rehab program.