What is cannabis use disorder?

Cannabis is a psychoactive substance that can create a sense of calm, euphoria, or other emotions collectively referred to as a “high.” It’s known by many different terms (i.e. weed or marijuana) and comes in a variety of forms (flower, gummies, resin, edibles, etc.). 

In recent years, cannabis use has become more common in the U.S. due to increased legalization, and this has prompted questions about the addictive properties of cannabis and its safety. Most people who use cannabis don’t go on to use other substances later in life. 

But research shows that frequent, prolonged cannabis use can result in dependence. It’s estimated that approximately 3 in 10 people who use cannabis regularly live with cannabis use disorder.

Is THC addictive?

Cannabis products are made from plants that contain a psychoactive chemical called delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). In cases of prolonged, frequent cannabis use, a person can become dependent on THC, which can eventually lead to addiction. 

However, it’s worth noting that the risk of cannabis addiction is lower than the risk of addiction to other substances (like alcohol, tobacco, or opioids). In addition, cannabis doesn’t have the same risk profile as other substances. For example, using alcohol or opioids in unhealthy ways could lead to a fatal overdose, which isn’t the case with cannabis use.  

How can you spot the symptoms of cannabis use disorder?

Compared to other substance use disorders (SUDs), cannabis use disorder is a relatively new diagnosis. So if you’re less familiar with its symptoms, you’re not alone. You can learn to spot the signs of cannabis use disorder by reviewing the diagnostic criteria. 

You may have cannabis use disorder if you:

• Use larger amounts of cannabis than intended
• Use cannabis more frequently than intended
• Unsuccessfully attempt to reduce or stop your cannabis use
• Spend lots of time, money, and other resources on obtaining and using cannabis 
• Have frequent, strong cravings for cannabis
• Continue to use cannabis despite negative consequences at home, school, or work
• Experience relationship problems due to cannabis use
• No longer participate in hobbies or social activities because of cannabis use
• Use cannabis when it isn’t safe to do so (like when you’re driving or operating heavy equipment)
• Need to use more cannabis to achieve the desired effect (developing tolerance)
• Experience withdrawal symptoms after stopping cannabis use

Depending on the number of symptoms present, a person can be diagnosed with mild, moderate, or severe cannabis use disorder.

What causes cannabis use disorder?

Like other SUDs, genetics, environment, brain chemistry, and life experiences can impact a person’s risk of developing cannabis use disorder. But research shows that a few other factors may make a person more vulnerable to unhealthy cannabis use. 

Most people use cannabis to experiment, relax, or connect socially. However, some may use cannabis as a means of self-medication. People living with untreated depression, anxiety, stress, chronic pain, or digestive issues may use cannabis to manage unwanted symptoms. And while cannabis can provide some temporary relief, frequent use is a major risk factor for developing cannabis use disorder.

Are there negative effects of marijuana use?

Heavy cannabis use can negatively affect a person’s health and physical well-being. In some people, marijuana use can lead to:

• Changes in brain health and a permanently reduced IQ
• Problems with physical coordination and athletic ability
• Decreased ability to drive safely
• Problems with fetal development (when someone uses cannabis during pregnancy)
• Reduced motivation
• Declining academic and/or professional performance
• Relationship challenges
• Lower quality of life overall

In addition, cannabis has been linked to several mental health conditions, including:

• Cannabis-induced anxiety disorder
• Cannabis-induced psychotic disorder
• Cannabis-induced sleep disorder 
• Cannabis-induced delirium

What treatment options are there for cannabis use disorder?

Experts are still working to develop effective treatments for cannabis use disorder. But, to date, the most effective approaches for reducing cannabis use include:

• Motivational enhancement therapy (MET): This technique incorporates elements of another popular type of therapy, motivational interviewing. In MET sessions, the therapist focuses on building trust, gauging a person’s readiness for change and helping them explore how they feel about their cannabis use.
• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): When combined with aspects of MET, CBT can help a person identify and challenge unhelpful thought and behavior patterns related to their cannabis use. It can also help them learn new ways of coping with stress and successfully navigate relapse if it occurs.
• Contingency management (CM): CM is based on the theory of operant conditioning. It’s designed to help a person control their cannabis use through frequent rewards for positive behavior. Positive reinforcement has been shown to promote abstinence from substances like cannabis.
• Medication: While there’s no approved medication for cannabis use disorder, other medications can be helpful for people who have co-occurring conditions, like depression or anxiety. 

Find care with Rula

In the past, many people thought of cannabis as a nonaddictive substance. But today, we know that this isn’t true. With frequent and heavy use, it’s possible to become both psychologically and physically dependent on cannabis, and this can lead to cannabis use disorder. Fortunately, like other SUDs, cannabis use disorder can be managed with the right support. So if you or someone you care about is having trouble managing their cannabis use, don’t hesitate to ask for help. 

At Rula, we’re committed to making it easier to access affordable substance use care. To start the process today, check out our therapist-matching platform. In just a few minutes, you can explore our network of over 10,000 providers, find a therapist who takes your insurance, and make your first live video session for as soon as tomorrow.

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