Is Cannabis Dependency Treatable
Learn about the treatability of cannabis dependency and find out how to seek help for those struggling with cannabis use.
Cannabis dependency, known clinically as cannabis use disorder, is a pattern of use that causes problems in your life. The main symptoms are tolerance, withdrawal, craving, using more than intended, failed attempts to cut back, and continued use despite harm. You do not need every symptom to have a problem. Two or three symptoms in a year can signal mild dependency. The DSM-5 lists 11 criteria, and meeting two or more within 12 months points to a diagnosis.
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Core symptoms of cannabis dependency
Watch for these signs. They can appear alone or together.
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- Tolerance: needing more cannabis to get the same effect, or getting less effect from the same amount.
- Withdrawal: irritability, anxiety, sleep problems, decreased appetite, restlessness, or depressed mood when you stop.
- Craving: strong urges to use cannabis.
- Loss of control: using more often or for longer than you planned.
- Failed attempts: wanting to cut down or quit but not succeeding.
- Time spent: spending a lot of time getting, using, or recovering from cannabis.
- Neglect: giving up hobbies, work, or social activities because of use.
- Continued use despite problems: using even when it causes relationship, job, or health issues.
- Hazardous use: using in risky situations, like driving.
- Social problems: continuing use despite arguments with family or friends.
How to check for cannabis dependency symptoms
Use these steps to assess your own pattern. Be honest. One or two symptoms may not mean dependency, but they are worth watching.
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- Track your use for one week. Write down the time, amount, and reason for each use.
- Stop using for 48 hours. Note any physical or emotional symptoms that appear.
- Compare your first use of the day to your last. Record how much more you need now than you did a year ago.
- List every time you tried to cut back or quit. Mark whether you succeeded.
- Check your calendar for activities you dropped in the past month. Circle the ones you gave up for cannabis.
- Ask one person you trust if they noticed changes in your mood, sleep, or reliability.
- Review your answers against the DSM-5 criteria. If you meet two or more, consider a professional evaluation.
When to seek help
Seek a medical or mental health evaluation if withdrawal disrupts your day, if you use cannabis to avoid withdrawal, or if use has caused a job loss, arrest, or health scare. Treatment options include cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational enhancement, and contingency management. Some people need supervised detox for heavy use.