Cannabis Use Disorder - Addiction Therapy
Cannabis has many names— Ganja, Marijuana, Pot, Weed —and the list seems endless. So too are the debates surrounding its use. With ongoing discussions about where, when, how, and if people should use marijuana, misinformation and misunderstandings are prevalent. In the midst of this, separating myth from reality can be challenging. Have you ever heard that…
“Marijuana is not addictive?”
Or maybe…
“Marijuana is highly addictive?”
Or perhaps…
“People don’t experience withdrawal symptoms when they quit marijuana?”
Here’s a more accurate picture: while cannabis can indeed be addictive, its effects are much like alcohol in that many people use it regularly without developing a dependency. Statistics show that about 17 percent of teens and 9 percent of adults who use marijuana may become addicted. Furthermore, 25-50 percent of daily users can develop an addiction. Some people experience no issues, while others may face serious struggles. Withdrawal symptoms can vary: some may not experience any, while others deal with a range of physical and emotional symptoms.
The number of people who struggle with controlling their marijuana use or who face withdrawal symptoms has led the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) to formally recognize Cannabis Use Disorder (CUD).
If you find yourself using marijuana more often or in larger amounts than you intended, you’re not alone. Many people develop Cannabis Use Disorder, but therapy has been proven effective in helping people regain control of their lives.
Symptoms of Cannabis Use Disorder (CUD)
Cannabis contains Delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), a psychoactive compound that disrupts the connection between the mind and body. This is why marijuana affects moods and cognitive functions. When consumed in larger quantities, THC can even cause hallucinations.
While marijuana use can be safe and enjoyable for some, for others, it can become an addictive and disruptive force. Determining whether your cannabis use is harmful or harmless can be difficult. How much is too much? How often is too often?
The DSM-5 clearly defines Cannabis Use Disorder and its symptoms. Consider your own cannabis habits and ask yourself if you recognize any of these signs:
Spending significant time obtaining, using, and recovering from cannabis use.
Craving marijuana, which may include intense dreams, psychosomatic smells, vivid images, or obsessive thoughts.
Using cannabis more frequently than before.
Continuing to use marijuana despite negative effects on work, relationships, or personal well-being.
Failing to reduce or stop use, despite efforts to quit.
Neglecting responsibilities such as work, school, hygiene, or relationships due to cannabis use.
Experiencing withdrawal symptoms such as headaches, cravings, nightmares, digestive issues, sweating, and more.
Increasing consumption to experience the same effects or to get high.
- Engaging in risky behavior, such as driving under the influence of marijuana.
Not all cannabis addiction looks the same. The DSM-5 categorizes the severity of CUD based on the number of symptoms:
Mild CUD: 2-3 symptoms
Moderate CUD: 4-5 symptoms
Severe CUD: 6 or more symptoms
Risk Factors for Cannabis Use Disorder (CUD)
The DSM-5 also highlights that not everyone who uses cannabis will develop an addiction, but certain factors can increase the risk. These include:
A lower socio-economic status
Family members who use marijuana
An abusive or traumatic background
A family history of addiction
Living in a drug-tolerant culture
Prior tobacco use
A history of conduct disorders or antisocial personality disorder
Easy access to cannabis
Low school performance
A difficult family dynamic
Treatment for Cannabis Use Disorder (CUD)
When detoxing from cannabis, individuals often experience intense emotions, vivid dreams, and mental and emotional challenges. For many, cannabis was a way of numbing difficult feelings or experiences, and stopping can bring those emotions to the surface. This can be overwhelming, but counseling can help people process these emotions and learn healthier ways to cope with life’s challenges.
Treating Cannabis Use Disorder isn’t easy, and there’s no quick fix. But therapy has proven to be a powerful tool for those ready to reclaim their lives. Through structured support, therapy can provide the necessary guidance to successfully manage and overcome CUD.
Therapy at Aloha Care Therapy
Talk therapy can be a valuable tool for individuals looking to manage or reduce their cannabis use. Through therapeutic conversations, individuals can explore the underlying reasons for their cannabis use, such as stress, anxiety, or emotional distress. Understanding the root causes can help individuals gain better control over their behavior and develop healthier coping mechanisms. Therapists may use various approaches, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which helps people identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors associated with substance use.
In addition, talk therapy provides a supportive, nonjudgmental space where individuals can work through cravings and triggers that may lead to cannabis use. By building self-awareness and emotional resilience, therapy helps individuals address the psychological aspects of dependency or habitual use, which can be crucial for long-term change. Over time, individuals can learn to navigate social pressures, manage stress more effectively, and ultimately reduce or eliminate their reliance on cannabis in a healthy, sustainable way.
If cannabis is interfering with your life, know that help is available. Take the first step toward healing and call us today to get started.
