How common is cannabis use disorder?
The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) reports that studies have estimated 22% to 30% of people who use cannabis have cannabis use disorder. NIDA names how often a person uses as the strongest predictor. Other factors include a family history of drug use and how long someone has been using cannabis. Daily or near-daily use of products with THC is the pattern most closely tied to the disorder. (NIDA: Cannabis (Marijuana))
Dependence vs. addiction: what is the difference?
Dependence means the body has adjusted to cannabis. Someone who is dependent may need more to feel the same effect (tolerance) and may feel off for a few days after stopping. Addiction is about behavior: continuing to use even when it causes problems and struggling to stop despite wanting to. A person can have some dependence without meeting the criteria for cannabis use disorder.
What are the signs of cannabis use disorder?
Clinicians use the DSM-5, the American Psychiatric Association's diagnostic manual. It describes cannabis use disorder as a pattern of use that causes real impairment or distress, shown by two or more of these signs within 12 months:
- Using more, or for longer, than you meant to
- Wanting to cut down but not managing to
- Spending a lot of time getting, using, or recovering from cannabis
- Strong cravings
- Use getting in the way of work, school, or home life
- Keeping on despite problems with friends, family, or a partner
- Giving up hobbies or activities in order to use
- Using in situations where it creates a risk of injury, like driving
- Needing more to get the same effect, or feeling withdrawal when you stop
What does cannabis withdrawal feel like?
Withdrawal can happen after stopping or sharply reducing heavy, long-term use, even in people who do not have cannabis use disorder. NIDA cites one study estimating that 12.1% of people who use cannabis frequently experience withdrawal. Reported symptoms include irritability, anxiety or restlessness, trouble sleeping, unusual dreams, lower appetite, low mood, headaches, and sweating. They usually ease over the following days to weeks.
Who is at higher risk?
- People who use every day or almost every day
- People who started young and have used for many years
- People with a family history of substance use
- People who use cannabis mainly to cope with stress, anxiety, or low mood
Using cannabis with intention
Most adults who use cannabis do not develop a disorder, and a few habits help keep it that way. Treat cannabis as an occasional choice rather than a daily default. Start with a low dose, especially with edibles, and wait before taking more. Take regular tolerance breaks, and notice if you are reaching for cannabis to get through the day instead of enjoying it. Our budtenders are happy to talk through lower-THC options and dosing; you can read more in our guides to whether THC percentage matters and CBD vs. THC edibles.
Where to get help in New York
If you want to cut back or are worried about someone else, help is free and confidential. New York's HOPEline is available 24/7: call 1-877-8-HOPENY (1-877-846-7369) or text HOPENY (467369). (NYS OASAS HOPEline) Nationally, SAMHSA's helpline at 1-800-662-4357 can point you to treatment near you. (SAMHSA: Cannabis (Marijuana))
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