The plant contains at least 125 different cannabinoids,1 including delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). It has intoxicating effects, meaning it can temporarily alter a person’s mood, thoughts, and perceptions. Patients may experience relief from withdrawal symptoms within a few days of starting clonidine, which can support long-term abstinence from cannabis. It is typically considered when other treatments have not been effective, particularly in patients who are also trying to quit smoking. Varenicline is not usually a first-line treatment for cannabis use disorder alone. Historically, clinicians distinguished between “abuse” (problematic use with social or legal consequences) and “dependence” (marked by tolerance, withdrawal, and compulsive use).
Cannabis (Marijuana)
- This risk increases to 30–40% among those with a history of daily cannabis use15,31.
- Approximately 10% of individuals who start using cannabis eventually become addicted, with around 30% of current users fulfilling the criteria for addiction.
Depression can present with symptoms of anergia, amotivation, short-term memory deficits, and difficulty concentrating. In a young person, who fits the demographic of a cannabis user, parents or others may attribute the symptoms to cannabis use and denial, particularly if the adolescent cannot articulate their feelings. To rule out other disorders, in addition to meeting the diagnostic criteria listed above, diagnosis of use can be determined through enzyme immunoassay testing of a urine sample for cannabis use disorder cannabinoid metabolites. The presence of metabolites can indicate recent use, and if quantitative testing is done, the levels of metabolites can be measured, indicating the relative amount of cannabis recently used.
Results that Indicate Cannabis Use Disorder
At True North Recovery Services, we understand that overcoming Cannabis Use Disorder requires comprehensive, personalized care. We believe recovery is a deeply personal journey, and our compassionate team provides the support, respect, and professional guidance needed to help you find your path to lasting recovery and a more fulfilling life. If you or a loved one are struggling with cannabis use disorder (CUD) or another substance use disorder https://aaalockandkeys.com/how-to-talk-to-help-an-addict-in-denial/ (SUD), Charlie Health is here to help. Charlie Health’s virtual Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) provides more than once-weekly mental health treatment for dealing with serious mental health conditions, including CUD and other SUDs like alcohol use disorder (AUD) and more. Our expert clinicians incorporate evidence-based therapies into individual counseling, family therapy, and group sessions.
Does everyone who uses marijuana develop CUD?
This could include issues like anxiety, depression, or relationship conflicts. Continued use despite these negative consequences is a clear sign of addiction, as the individual is unable to stop even when it causes harm. About 40-60% of individuals with cannabis use disorder report unsuccessful attempts to reduce or quit cannabis use. Despite wanting to cut down, they find it difficult due to cravings, withdrawal symptoms, or habitual use. This pattern of failed attempts to stop is a key indicator of addiction and highlights the need for professional support in managing the disorder.
Mental Health Effects
A variety of information sources are available to monitor the prevalence and Sober living house trends of cannabis use in the United States. The resources below cover cannabis-related issues, including data around use, emergency department visits, substance use and misuse, policy measures, and other related tools. Other SUDs including alcohol dependence, opioid dependence, nicotine dependence and substance dependence. Liberal medical cannabis programmes have facilitated the later legalization of non-medical cannabis use by blurring the distinction between medical and non-medical use300.
- CBD has generated a great deal of interest in its potential therapeutic use22,23 because it does not produce euphoria24 and it has low abuse or dependence potential25.
- Few psychosocial interventions maintain treatment gains after 9-month follow-up 155.
- Please consult your physician before beginning or discontinuing any medication.
- Access a detailed guide to the Cannabis Use Disorder DSM-5 Criteria, including key symptoms and clinical considerations.
Expert Treatment Methods for Cannabis Use Disorder
Treatment includes motivational interviews, contingency management and cognitive behavioral therapy. The most effective approach typically combines multiple therapeutic modalities tailored to individual needs. Effective relapse prevention involves creating a plan to manage potential relapses. Key strategies include identifying triggers and warning signs, developing coping mechanisms, and seeking support when needed.
- The highest expression of CB1 is found in glutamate and GABAergic neurons, but other neuron types also express CB1 (such as serotoninergic and noradrenergic neurons)72.
- Barriers include stigma, under-recognition by clinicians, and gaps in access—especially for women and minority populations 14 15.
- Screening and assessment tools are needed to personalize prevention and treatment.
- Some will recognize that their use of cannabis is preventing goal achievement, but are unable to stop on their own due to the intrinsic reward properties of cannabis.
In jurisdictions where adult cannabis use is legal, governments can minimize heavy use and adolescent uptake using taxation, legal restrictions on minimum purchase age and controls on advertising. A priority for cannabis research should be providing accurate information to assist the community and policy-makers to avoid ideologically influenced decision-making. Improved education needs to address the misinformation about and exaggerations of the medical benefits of cannabis.
The reference guide used by clinicians to diagnose mental health disorders is known as the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). The most recent version of the manual is the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders – 5th Edition (DSM-5). Charlie Health’s virtual substance use disorder treatment program for individuals with a primary substance use disorder diagnosis is only available in select states. Cannabis intoxication and a characteristic withdrawal syndrome, such as irritability, sleep disturbances, or appetite changes, may also be considered.
