At Promises Dallas-Fort Worth in Lewisville, Texas, adults struggling with marijuana and other substance use can get evidence-based care in one place, including medical detox, residential treatment, partial hospitalization and virtual intensive outpatient care. Call (469) 546-9303 to talk with our admissions team about options for yourself or a loved one.
Decriminalization vs. Legalization: What’s the Difference?
Marijuana is currently illegal in the United States and is still classified as a Schedule I drug by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). As such, marijuana is illegal on the federal level. However, states may choose to decriminalize or legalize marijuana on their own. Decriminalization and legalization are two separate concepts often conflated in discussions about drug policy.
Decriminalization refers to reducing legal penalties associated with the personal use of marijuana. Under decriminalization, possession and use might still be illegal, but the consequences are significantly less severe, typically involving fines or treatment requirements rather than jail time. Decriminalization of marijuana has been the law in some states since 1973, including Alaska, Oregon, California, Colorado, and the District of Columbia.
Legalization, on the other hand, removes all legal prohibitions against marijuana. This means it’s completely legal to possess, use, and sometimes even grow and sell marijuana, depending on the specific laws. As of May 2024, 24 states have legalized recreational marijuana use, and an additional 14 have allowed medical marijuana.
Reclassification: A Third Outcome
In April 2024, the Drug Enforcement Agency made a move to begin reclassifying marijuana as a Schedule III substance. Schedule III drugs have a low to moderate potential for physical and psychological addiction.
Reclassification would ease access to marijuana for those who need it for medicinal purposes and would also likely have impacts on those who were imprisoned for marijuana-related charges. After the DEA officially proposes the rescheduling, it will have to be passed through federal systems.
About Marijuana Abuse and Addiction
Marijuana can be abused and lead to users depending on the drug to function or feel normal. This dependence can stem from several factors, including genetic predisposition, environmental influences, and mental health issues. The process usually begins with experimentation, which can escalate to regular use, dependence, and eventually addiction if left unchecked.
While marijuana may not be as addictive as other drugs, like opioids, it can still cause significant problems if abused. Recognizing the signs of marijuana abuse is crucial in seeking early intervention. Here are some common indicators:
- Increased tolerance to marijuana
- Spending a significant amount of time obtaining, using, or recovering from the effects of marijuana
- Continued use despite knowing its harmful effects
- Withdrawal symptoms when not using marijuana
- Neglecting responsibilities at work, school, or home
- Mood swings
- Changes in sleep habits
- Lack of motivation
If you or someone you love rely on weed to feel normal, reach out for help. Look to Promises DFW for guidance toward a healthier future.
Get Help for Substance Use at Promises Dallas-Fort Worth
Promises Dallas-Fort Worth provides medical detox, residential treatment, partial hospitalization and virtual intensive outpatient care for adults at our Joint Commission-accredited center in Lewisville, Texas. Learn more about our drug addiction treatment, or let our admissions team verify your insurance before you commit. Call (469) 546-9303 or contact us online to get started.
Our team of experienced professionals includes therapists, counselors, and other professionals who are dedicated to helping individuals break free from the cycle of marijuana abuse. We use evidence-based treatments such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and group therapy to help clients develop healthier coping mechanisms and make positive changes in their lives.