Spice is a synthetic cannabinoid, also known as synthetic marijuana. The drug is produced from psychoactive chemicals that are sprayed onto plant material and sold as a drug that mimics the effects of THC (the active compound in marijuana).
Although it is not widely understood, spice can be much more potent and dangerous than cannabis and can cause a range of health risks and adverse effects, such as spice addiction.
Do you want to understand more about spice addiction and the signs of spice abuse? See more information here.
What is Spice?
Spice is a synthetic cannabinoid drug that is sold illegally. Spice is often sold as a herbal smoking blend where synthetic chemicals have been sprayed onto plant material, mimicking the look and feel of weed (cannabis). However, it is important to note that spice is not a safe alternative to marijuana and people can experience dangerous reactions to the drug.
The chemical composition of spice can vary widely, and its effects can be unpredictable and often more potent than cannabis which is why the drug can be dangerous. This unpredictability has led to numerous health risks and harmful reactions in people who consume spice, such as anxiety, paranoia, hallucinations, rapid heart rate, and even medical emergencies in severe cases.
Due to its potential dangers, many countries have banned or regulated the sale and use of spice. Understanding spice addiction and the risks associated with synthetic cannabinoids is key to maintaining health and safety.
Is Spice Addictive?
Spice can be addictive if it is consumed regularly and a tolerance to the drug has developed. While the synthetic compounds in spice are designed to interact with the same receptors in the brain as THC which is the active component in natural cannabis, the drug can often be much more potent.
As a result, there is a risk of spice addiction and dependence forming which can have a negative impact on people’s lives. Becoming dependent on spice can impact relationships, behaviour, lifestyles and finances, so understanding spice addiction and the potential risk of the drug is important.
Users of spice can develop both physical and psychological dependence on the drug if it is consumed regularly, and the unpredictable nature of the chemicals used in spice makes it even more dangerous.
It’s essential to understand that spice addiction can have serious consequences for an individual’s physical and mental health, as well as their overall well-being. Seeking professional help and support is crucial for those struggling with a substance addiction to synthetic cannabinoids like spice, as they can be very addictive and have a detrimental impact on your life.
Signs of Spice Addiction
It may not be obvious to you if you have developed a spice addiction, but knowing the signs and symptoms of spice addiction is beneficial and is the first step of the recovery journey. If you find yourself craving spice, you do not feel the same high from consuming it after a while, or you experience spice withdrawal symptoms, you have likely developed an addiction.
Common signs of spice addiction include:
- Cravings for spice.
- Consuming spice at inappropriate times.
- Behaviour changes and mood swings.
- Relationship or job breakdowns as a result of spice or drug use.
- Mental health issues such as psychosis, depression and anxiety.
- Being unable to remember periods of time between spice consumption.
- Feeling reliant on spice to function, manage daily tasks or sleep.
- Withdrawal symptoms when not using spice.
Spice withdrawal symptoms can be both physical and psychological and depend on the type of spice. The way the body reacts to spice also depends on whether it is mixed with any other drugs and how much is consumed.
Physical withdrawal symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, sweating, and anxiety, may be experienced by individuals trying to quit or reduce their use of synthetic cannabinoids. However, the most common form of spice withdrawal symptoms is psychological, such as psychosis, mood swings, anxiety, depression, and severe cravings.
It is important to seek help if you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse related to spice. Learn more about addiction treatment programmes to understand more about what you can expect.
Dangers of Spice Addiction
Having a dependence on spice can have negative implications on your health, wellbeing and relationships, which is why you should seek treatment or support if you have developed a drug addiction to spice.
Adverse reactions to spice can include psychosis and other mental health issues, lack of self-care which can cause weight loss, behavioural changes and more. It can also lead to job loss, relationship breakups and family breakdowns, so seeking treatment from a professional as soon as possible is the best way to avoid the potential dangers of spice.
If a family member or friend is showing signs of spice addiction, it is important to understand that addiction is a disease. Although certain behaviours can be frustrating to witness as a loved one, substance addiction is a complex disorder that is extremely difficult to recover from alone.
Spice Addiction Treatment
Accessing professional treatment for spice addiction is the best way to overcome substance abuse. It can be hard to take the first step toward recovery, but residential rehab centres offer the best form of spice addiction treatment available.
Overcoming spice addiction first involves a withdrawal period to stop your dependence on the drug. Some withdrawal symptoms will likely be experienced during this period, but medical professionals are there for support, and detox medications may be provided to help alleviate any uncomfortable symptoms.
The most important element of spice addiction is therapy and psychological treatment. Understanding spice addiction, why you have developed an addiction and how to manage cravings is what will help you to stay sober once addiction treatment has ended.
Typical treatments include group therapy, individual therapy, CBT, art therapy, holistic treatments, relapse prevention planning and aftercare.
Reach out to us today for help seeking addiction treatment. If you want to know more about substance abuse and understanding spice addiction is difficult, we can help. Phone us on 0800 012 6088 or fill out our contact form to start your treatment today.
