Marijuana addictions program launched

With last year's legalization of cannabis, Chatham-Kent Community Health Centres are launching a new addictions program.

Trevor Terfloth

(File Photo)

With last year’s legalization of cannabis, Chatham-Kent Community Health Centres are launching a new addictions program.

‘Breaking Up with Mary Jane’ will begin Feb. 28 at the Chatham location at 150 Richmond St. and will run for 12 consecutive weeks on Thursdays from 1:30-4 p.m.

The group for the abstinence-oriented program will be facilitated by a mental health and addictions therapist and registered social worker.

CKCHC cited information from the Canadian Mental Health Association that although cannabis is now a legal substance, its still comes with risks.

“Like alcohol or tobacco, the use of cannabis engenders potential short and long-term health consequences,” the organization stated.

“Cannabis use is linked to acute psychotic symptoms and cognitive impairment similar to schizophrenia. Furthermore, people who become heavy cannabis consumers may develop substance dependence, mental health problems, and/or a cannabis use disorder.”

Breaking Up with Mary Jane will allow individuals to recognize when cannabis use becomes problematic, participate in treatment and to abstain from use by using relapse prevention skills.

The program will also focus on:

• Physical and psychological effects of marijuana;
• Cravings and internal/external triggers;
• Strategies for change;
• Withdrawal and relapse management;
• Problem solving and refusal skills.

The overall goal is to help individuals abstain and maintain long-term recovery from marijuana addiction for improved health and well-being, the organization stated.