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Addiction Recovery Blog

Why CBD Can’t Replace Addiction Treatment

A doctor researching CBD oil in a lab.

There has been a tsunami of CBD news and products across the country over the last few years. The popularity behind CBD is fueled by the claims of the positive health benefits that it can have. In fact, some sellers of CBD claim that it is a “cure all” for ailments, from anxiety to deadly diseases like cancer.

While CBD can aid pain relief, it doesn’t have the ability to cure diseases – especially addiction. If you’re struggling with substance abuse to cope with chronic pain, the best solution to your addiction and to find a way to manage your pain is addiction treatment.

What is CBD?

Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of the main chemical compounds found in cannabis. The important thing to note is that CBD does not contain any psychoactive qualities, so it won’t get you high or cause any euphoria when you use CBD oils, topicals or gummies. Many people assume that CBD and marijuana are the same thing, but the chemical in marijuana that creates the high is actually THC.

How Does CBD Work?

CBD works by binding itself to receptors in the endocannabinoid system of your brain. The endocannabinoid system helps your body regulate your mood and control your appetite and plays a major role in pain and memory. CBD also attaches to your brain’s serotonin and adenosine receptors, helping to relieve pain and reduce inflammation in your body.

There is No Current Evidence that Suggests CBD Can Be Used for Addiction Treatment

While CBD products have garnered media attention and revenue, there is not reliable evidence suggesting CBD can be used for addiction treatment. While some studies suggest that CBD could be a potential treatment for anxiety disorders that would help those in recovery prevent relapse, these studies don’t suggest CBD can be used as a therapy for addiction treatment.

Even though some headlines might say otherwise, CBD is not a replacement for addiction treatment. If you’re struggling with drug cravings or anxiety with your addiction, Footprints Beachside Recovery has evidence-focused treatments that can help.

Why Choose Professional Addiction Treatment Over CBD

1. Detoxification Services

One of the main reasons why many people don’t seek addiction treatment is the fear of withdrawal. While CBD might be able to help you manage anxiety from withdrawal, it’s nothing compared to the support of professional detox services.

Addiction treatment centers like Footprints Beachside Recovery can help you safely detox from drugs or alcohol. During detox, you’ll be under the care of medical professionals. They will monitor your withdrawal symptoms and make your safety and comfort a top priority.

2. Identification of Underlying Causes of Your Addiction

Addiction treatment lets you uncover the underlying causes of your addiction. While treating symptoms can help in the short-term, finding the root cause is the foundation for lasting recovery. During addiction treatment, the team at your addiction treatment center will get to know you on a personal level and help you uncover the reasons why you turned to addiction.

It’s possible that an underlying mental health condition like anxiety or depression is fueling your addiction. Expert dual diagnosis treatment can treat your substance abuse and any mental health conditions side by side.

3. Relationship Building with People Who Understand Your Struggle

Part of what makes addiction difficult to endure is the feelings of loneliness and isolation that come with it. While using CBD to relieve your anxiety might help, developing a support system through addiction treatment has a much more lasting impact.

When you’re in addiction treatment, you’ll benefit from hearing the stories and experiences of other clients and realize you’re not alone. There are other people who have reached lasting recovery and you have the potential to do the same.

Break Free from Addiction at Footprints Beachside Recovery

Footprints Beachside Recovery is an addiction treatment center that understands the challenges of addiction. After all, we’ve been through it ourselves. Our addiction treatment takes an evidence-based approach to help you reach lasting recovery.

On the serene and peaceful beaches of the Florida coast, you’ll discover your potential to overcome your addiction. Contact our admission team today to get started.