Using cannabis in the United States is rising and quickly becoming a multi-billion dollar industry. From smoking joints in the 1970s to vaping, eating, and more today, daily use of cannabis has doubled in the United States, according to some experts. However, some of us do not consider cannabis addictive. Come to find out, we’re wrong. Cannabis can be addictive, similar to other legal substances. 

Two Out of Eleven

Cannabis use disorder is diagnosed when two out of eleven cannabis use behaviors are observed, such as:

• Using more cannabis than you intend to use;

• Trying to decrease your use but just can’t seem to do so;

• Spending a lot of time to find and get or recover after using cannabis;

• Disconnecting from important people or things to use cannabis;

• Experiencing cravings to use cannabis;

• Having cannabis-related problems but still using the substance;

• Using cannabis in risky situations;

• Unfulfilling expectations at work or home;

• Needing more cannabis over time to achieve the same high;

• Enduring withdrawal symptoms when you stop using cannabis. 

Even with all of these negative factors that contribute to a diagnosis, there are even more issues that can negatively impact cannabis users, such as:

• Psychosis

• Fetal harm during pregnancy and during breastfeeding

• Worsening of cardiovascular and pulmonary disease symptoms

• Hazardous drug interactions

Treatment Can Help

Only two of the symptoms are enough to diagnose a cannabis use disorder. If you are using cannabis and qualify for a cannabis use disorder diagnosis, you probably won’t seek treatment, according to the research. Yet, persistent use of cannabis can negatively impact one’s health. For example, cannabis can impair memory, coordination, and judgment and negatively affect the function of multiple organs. 

The good news is that treatment can help, as it can help with any substance use disorder. Cognitive behavioral therapies are frequently called for when it comes to cannabis. No medications are currently approved to treat cannabis use disorder. So, it is important that the treatment is useful for the person who experiences the disorder. Thus, working with a therapist who can provide customized treatment to your exact circumstances is critical. 

If you are ready to get help, be sure the therapist you select with whom you can have an effective working relationship. You do not have to like the therapist. They are not in practice to be your friend. Yet, they are there to help you learn coping skills, access resources, learn about your mind and body, explore your experiences, identify triggers, and ultimately achieve sobriety. 

Your health is in your hands. If you are ready to achieve your health goals, take a seat. Let’s talk.