Key Takeaways
- Cannabis use disorder (CUD) happens when someone can’t stop using marijuana, even when it causes problems.
- Marijuana addiction can lead to cravings, withdrawal symptoms, and trouble managing responsibilities.
- Frequent cannabis use can affect mental health, causing anxiety, depression, and memory issues.
- Heavy marijuana users may experience cannabis withdrawal when they stop using the drug.
- Treatment for marijuana addiction includes therapy, support groups, and counseling.
Introduction
Marijuana is the most commonly used illegal drug in the United States. Many people use cannabis for relaxation, stress relief, or medical reasons. Some use it for fun. But not everyone realizes that marijuana is addictive.
For some people, marijuana use becomes a problem. They may feel unable to stop, even when it affects their life. This is called cannabis use disorder. It happens when someone keeps using marijuana despite adverse effects on their health, relationships, or work.
This article will explain the signs of marijuana addiction, withdrawal symptoms, and treatment options for cannabis use disorder. If you or someone you love is struggling, help is available.
What Is Cannabis Use Disorder?
Cannabis use disorder (CUD) is when a person becomes dependent on marijuana and struggles to control their use. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) report that about 9% of marijuana users develop an addiction. That number rises to 17% for people who start using as teenagers and 25-50% for daily users.
Marijuana contains THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the main psychoactive component of cannabis. THC makes people feel high, but it also affects brain function, emotions, and memory. Over time, the brain adjusts to regular THC exposure, making it harder to quit without experiencing withdrawal symptoms.
Some people think medical marijuana is safer, but frequent use can still lead to cannabis dependence.
Signs of Marijuana Use & Addiction
People with cannabis use disorder often show behavioral, physical, and psychological signs of addiction.
Behavioral Signs of Marijuana Abuse:
- Using larger amounts of cannabis than planned.
- Trying to quit but failing multiple times.
- Spending too much time using or recovering from marijuana.
- Ignoring responsibilities at work, school, or home.
- Choosing marijuana over social activities or hobbies.
- Continuing to use marijuana even when it causes problems.
Physical Signs of Marijuana Use:
- Bloodshot eyes and dry mouth.
- Increased appetite (also called “the munchies”).
- Slowed reaction time and poor coordination.
- Strong cravings to use cannabis.
Psychological Signs of Marijuana Addiction:
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when not using.
- Trouble with memory, focus, and decision-making.
- Increased paranoia or hallucinations in heavy users.
If someone keeps using cannabis despite these effects, they may have marijuana use disorder.
Cannabis Withdrawal Symptoms
When someone stops using marijuana, their body goes through withdrawal. Heavy cannabis users are more likely to experience withdrawal symptoms when they try to quit.
Common Cannabis Withdrawal Symptoms Include:
- Irritability and mood swings.
- Trouble sleeping and vivid dreams.
- Loss of appetite and weight loss.
- Anxiety, restlessness, or depression.
- Strong cravings for marijuana.
Withdrawal symptoms start within 24-48 hours after quitting and can last one to two weeks. While not as severe as opioid or alcohol withdrawal, these symptoms can make quitting difficult.
How Marijuana Abuse Affects Mental Health
Many people think marijuana is harmless, but frequent cannabis use can affect mental health.
- Anxiety & Depression: People who use marijuana regularly may experience increased anxiety and depression.
- Memory & Focus Problems: Long-term marijuana use affects brain function, making it harder to concentrate and learn new things.
- Psychosis & Paranoia: Some heavy cannabis users experience hallucinations or paranoia, especially with high-THC strains.
- Schizophrenia Risk: Research found that marijuana increases the risk of schizophrenia, especially in people with a family history of mental illness.
Mixing alcohol and cannabis can also increase impairment, leading to higher risks of accidents.
When Does Marijuana Use Become a Problem?
Not everyone who uses cannabis has a problem. But for some, marijuana use becomes difficult to control.
Doctors diagnose cannabis use disorder when a person meets at least two or more of these conditions:
- Using more marijuana than intended.
- Trying to quit but failing.
- Spending too much time using or recovering from cannabis.
- Craving marijuana frequently.
- Ignoring responsibilities due to marijuana use.
- Using cannabis even when it causes health problems.
The more symptoms a person has, the more severe their marijuana addiction may be.
Treatment for Marijuana Addiction
While quitting marijuana can be challenging, recovery is possible with the right support.
Common Treatment Options for Cannabis Use Disorder:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps people change negative thought patterns and behaviors.
- Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET): Encourages people to stay committed to quitting marijuana.
- Support Groups: Meetings like Marijuana Anonymous (MA) provide peer support.
- Contingency Management: Uses rewards and incentives for staying sober.
Many people with substance use disorders also need help with mental health conditions like anxiety or depression.
Getting Help for Cannabis Use Disorder
If you or someone you know struggles with marijuana addiction, professional treatment can help. Seeking help is not a sign of weakness—it’s a step toward a healthier future.
Virtue Recovery Killeen offers evidence-based treatment for cannabis use disorder. Our programs include:
- Medical detox to manage withdrawal symptoms.
- Therapy and counseling to treat addiction and mental health issues.
- Relapse prevention and aftercare to support long-term recovery.
If marijuana use is controlling your life, don’t wait. Call Virtue Recovery Killeen at 855-788-5582 today to start your journey to recovery.
FAQs
What is cannabis use disorder?
Cannabis use disorder (CUD) is when a person can’t control their marijuana use, even when it negatively affects their life.
Is marijuana addictive?
Yes. Marijuana is addictive, and some people develop dependence and withdrawal symptoms when they try to quit.
What are the signs of marijuana addiction?
Signs include cravings, withdrawal symptoms, using more than planned, and ignoring responsibilities due to marijuana use.
What happens when you quit marijuana?
People who stop using marijuana may experience withdrawal symptoms like irritability, trouble sleeping, and anxiety.
How can I treat cannabis use disorder?
Therapy, counseling, and behavioral treatments like CBT can help people reduce or quit cannabis use.
Where can I get marijuana addiction treatment?
If you or a loved one needs help with cannabis use disorder, Virtue Recovery Killeen offers professional addiction treatment. Call 855-788-5582 today for support.
What are marijuana use statistics regarding addiction?
Marijuana use statistics indicate that a significant number of individuals who use marijuana may develop a marijuana use disorder, with estimates suggesting that about 9% of users can become addicted. This number increases to about 17% among those who start using marijuana in their teens.
What constitutes a marijuana use disorder?
A marijuana use disorder is characterized by a pattern of cannabis use that leads to significant impairment or distress. This includes criteria such as a strong desire to use marijuana, unsuccessful efforts to control use, and continued use despite adverse effects on health and well-being.
What are the symptoms of cannabis withdrawal?
Symptoms of cannabis withdrawal can include irritability, insomnia, loss of appetite, anxiety, and other psychological symptoms. These symptoms can occur when an individual who has been using marijuana regularly suddenly reduces or stops their use.
How does marijuana abuse affect mental health?
The effects of marijuana abuse can lead to various mental health issues, including increased anxiety and risk of developing an anxiety disorder. Long-term abuse can exacerbate underlying mental health conditions and complicate their management.
What are the criteria for cannabis use disorder?
The criteria for cannabis use disorder include several behavioral and cognitive symptoms, such as increased tolerance to marijuana, withdrawal symptoms, and continued use despite knowing the risks associated with its use. A diagnosis typically requires meeting at least two of these criteria within a 12-month period.
Can the use of marijuana lead to other substance use issues?
Yes, the use of marijuana can increase the risk of developing other substance use issues. Research indicates that individuals who use marijuana are more likely to engage in the use of other drugs, which can lead to broader patterns of substance abuse.
What are the effects of cannabis use on daily life?
The effects of cannabis use on daily life can vary widely, but they may include impaired cognitive functioning, altered judgment, and decreased motivation. Heavy or chronic use can disrupt personal relationships, work performance, and overall quality of life.
How can one manage cannabis use disorder?
Management of cannabis use disorder often involves behavioral therapies, counseling, and support groups. These strategies focus on reducing use, coping with withdrawal symptoms, and addressing any underlying mental health issues.
What are the risks associated with the increased use of marijuana?
Increased use of marijuana can lead to a higher risk of developing a marijuana use disorder, as well as potential health issues such as respiratory problems from smoking marijuana, cognitive impairments, and the likelihood of experiencing withdrawal symptoms upon cessation.
What is the relationship between marijuana use, substance use, and mental health?
The relationship between marijuana use, substance use, and mental health is complex. Individuals with a history of substance use or mental health disorders may be at higher risk for developing marijuana use disorders, and cannabis use can exacerbate existing mental health conditions.
Resources
https://www.cdc.gov/cannabis/health-effects/cannabis-use-disorder.html
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK538131/
https://flboardofmedicine.gov/forms/is-marijuana-addictive.pdf
- About the Author
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Gigi Price holds licenses as a Master Social Worker and Clinical Drug Counselor. She completed her master’s degree in Social Work at Texas State University. Over the last decade, Gigi has been dedicated to utilizing evidence-based practices to enhance patient care and treatment planning, resulting in positive, long-term outcomes for patients and their families. Her passion lies in creating a treatment environment where professionals collaborate to bring about positive change and provide a safe, trustworthy therapeutic experience. Patients can be confident in receiving top-quality care under her leadership.
In her role as the Clinical Director of Virtue Recovery Houston, Gigi conducted research to identify the most effective approaches for treating patients with acute mental health diagnoses, PTSD, and Substance Use Disorder. She then assembled a team of skilled clinicians who could offer various therapeutic modalities, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy
(DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Somatic Exposure, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT). Gigi takes pride in overseeing the development and implementation of Virtue Houston’s Treatment Program, which includes two specialized therapeutic curricula tailored to the unique needs of individuals struggling with mental health issues, addiction, and PTSD.
