Is Someone Sober If They Still Smoke Pot?

You find yourself at a crossroads, contemplating your relationship with cannabis. Maybe you've stopped drinking, cut out hard drugs, or just want to live a cleaner lifestyle. But you still find cannabis hard to let go of. As you sit back and take a puff, you start to wonder, "Am I really sober if I'm still using weed?"

It's a question that many struggle with, especially as laws on marijuana change. You've heard people talk about being "clean" or "sober," and you've seen friends and family celebrate their own sobriety milestones. But where does that leave you? You might be feeling a mix of emotions like pride in cutting out more harmful substances, yet uncertainty about your cannabis use.

Looking into what sobriety truly means and exploring the reasons behind cannabis use can help clarify your issue. It's not just about labels but about understanding how cannabis fits into your life. In this blog post, we will answer questions that can help you move forward with your sobriety goals.

What Does Sober Normally Mean?

Sobriety is generally understood as the state of not being under the influence of any intoxicating substances. When someone decides to get sober, it often involves a process of detoxification, where the body goes through withdrawal as it adjusts to the absence of substances it has become dependent on.

This process can be physically and emotionally challenging, with symptoms ranging from nausea and headaches to anxiety and mood swings. However, once the withdrawal phase passes, individuals can start to experience the benefits of sobriety. These benefits may include improved health, better relationships, and a clearer mind. The goal of sobriety is not just to abstain from drugs and alcohol but to achieve a balanced and healthy life.

Can I Be Called Sober If I Still Smoke Weed?

Now, can you consider yourself sober if you still smoke weed? Technically speaking, the answer leans towards no. Traditional sobriety implies abstaining from all mind-altering substances. However, a new term has emerged in recent years: California Sober.

The term "California Sober" refers to people who abstain from alcohol and harder drugs but still use cannabis. While some may see this as a harm reduction approach, it's important to acknowledge that using weed can still serve as a crutch for dealing with underlying issues.

Essentially, while you might minimize harm by cutting out more dangerous substances, relying on cannabis could mean you're not addressing root causes of substance use.

Should I Go to Rehab if I Become Addicted to Weed?

If you find yourself using weed frequently and struggling to stop, you might wonder if rehab is the right step. The necessity of rehab often depends on individual circumstances. If you've had a history of addiction to other substances or if you sometimes use other drugs or alcohol, seeking professional help could be the right choice.

Plus, if you've been to rehab before, continuing to use weed might increase the risk of a full-blown relapse. Rehab can offer structured support and help you address the reasons behind your cannabis use.

If you are hesitant about checking into a facility, it doesn't always mean checking into an inpatient facility. You can also explore outpatient programs that can provide flexible options so you can start addressing deeper problems you may have.

Dual Diagnosis for Mental Health and Substance Abuse

Substance use, including cannabis, is often intertwined with mental health issues. If you're using weed to self-medicate for anxiety, depression, or chronic pain, it's possible that there's an underlying mental health condition contributing to your substance use.

This is where dual diagnosis comes into play. Dual diagnosis is a treatment approach addressing both mental health and substance abuse simultaneously.

For example, someone might use cannabis to deal with chronic pain, but this could also hide a mental health issue like depression. By seeking treatment that addresses both problems, you can find healthier ways to manage symptoms and aim for long-term sobriety.

Best Substance Abuse Treatment in Anaheim, California

While some people may believe being California Sober or only using weed is enough, professional treatment may be necessary to address the root causes of substance abuse. If you've been to rehab before, substituting another substance even if weed is legal in your area, may be a sign of a deeper issue.

If you're unsure where to start, reaching out to a professional for guidance can be a crucial first step. Remember, staying sober is not just about abstaining from substances but about finding balance and fulfillment in life.

At Anaheim Lighthouse, we offer tailor-made treatment programs to address both mental health and substance abuse. Our experienced staff provides a safe and supportive environment for individuals seeking recovery.

In addition to our residential program, we also offer outpatient options that allow you to continue with your daily responsibilities while receiving the necessary therapy and support.

Contact us today to learn more about our programs in Anaheim, Orange County, California.