Affect Launches New Program for Cannabis Use Disorder
Building on the success with alcohol and stimulant use disorders, Affect’s digital program offers a solution to a growing problem
In the United States, the prevalence of cannabis use disorder (CUD) has been on the rise, likely driven by increased access to highly potent new products. According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, nearly 6 percent of adults and teens qualify as having CUD. In response, Affect Therapeutics is pleased to announce a new program specifically designed for people looking to reduce or quit their use of cannabis.
CUD refers to a problematic pattern of cannabis (marijuana/weed) use that leads to distress or impairment in various aspects of life. While many people can use cannabis without developing a disorder, some individuals are more vulnerable to its addictive potential.
One of the significant risks associated with CUD is the potential link between cannabis use and mental health conditions such as schizophrenia. Although research on this topic is still ongoing, several studies suggest that heavy and prolonged cannabis use, especially during adolescence, may increase the risk of developing schizophrenia or exacerbate its symptoms in those already diagnosed.
Affect’s integrated digital program combines the most effective treatments available, including behavioral therapies, counseling, and where appropriate, medication.
Contingency management is a type of behavioral therapy that has proven to be effective in various types of addiction, including Cannabis Use Disorder. Contingency management involves providing rewards to people when they engage in healthy behaviors to make them more likely to engage in those behaviors in the future, with a goal of improving long term health and wellness.
Additionally, counseling can be employed to enhance an individual’s motivation and commitment to change their cannabis use patterns. Counseling helps people explore and resolve ambivalence, ultimately leading to a greater readiness to engage in treatment, while developing tools and strategies to face triggers or daily challenges that might contribute to abuse or relapse.
In some instances, medication may also be prescribed to assist with cannabis withdrawal symptoms or manage co-occurring mental health conditions.
We are excited to address this growing area of need. Together, we can work towards addressing cannabis use disorder and promoting overall well-being in our communities.
About Affect Therapeutics
Affect Therapeutics has reimagined addiction treatment for the digital age with a smartphone app that puts an integrated treatment program into the pocket of its members. Affect is free to download on the Google Play Store or Apple App Store. Affect has accreditation from CARF International and has received grant funding (1R43DA055394-01) from the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). Affect currently holds outpatient treatment licenses in 20 states and aims to serve a majority of the U.S. population by the end of 2023. The company partners with the largest health insurance payers in the country, including UnitedHealthcare, Aetna, Humana, Molina, and Centene.
Follow the company on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. For more information, visit https://www.affecttherapeutics.com/.