Cannabis use disorder: how to recognize the signs

Marijuana needs more research to be fully understood, but experts swear there are more benefits than risks to its use.

The majority of people can use cannabis without becoming addicted and are able to go cold turkey even if they use the drug regularly. However, there are exceptions; People with certain predispositions find it difficult to manage life without cannabis.

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Cannabis use disorder (CUD) is a complex issue. According to some studies and health experts, it affects 30% of marijuana users and significantly affects their lives. These people find that their relationships, jobs, and more are affected by the drug and prioritize it over many things.

According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), the manual used by psychiatrists to diagnose mental illnesses and disorders, a person must meet two out of 11 requirements to be diagnosed with CUD. These requirements are extensive and similar to other forms of addiction. This includes symptoms such as cravings for marijuana, interpersonal issues arising from cannabis use, use of the plant in a dangerous situation, and more.

Looking at the data, the marijuana users most likely to develop an addiction are teenagers. This is worrying and makes sense considering teenage brains are still developing; Excessive marijuana use could affect their brain composition and create problems for their future. Adolescents who consume cannabis excessively are at greater risk of certain mental illnesses, including anxiety, depression and most importantly, schizophrenia.

Researchers believe that teenagers are more likely to become addicted to cannabis and other drugs because of the strong associations they make between pleasure and reward. Forming these associations at a young age makes it difficult to shake off the cannabis cravings and high once their brain ages.

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When talking about CUD in people of all ages, other factors that increase the likelihood of developing an addiction are genetics, the presence of mental illnesses like depression and anxiety, and more. Addiction has a genetic and environmental component, with children of addicts being more likely to develop an addiction.

Since the side effects of cannabis are relatively mild, recognizing the symptoms of marijuana withdrawal can be difficult. These include irritability, nervousness, aggression, trouble sleeping, headaches and more. The easiest point of comparison would be to compare CUD symptoms to the symptoms of a tobacco addict; These people may fidget or need to increase their dosage over time to have the same experience as before. As with all addictions, if someone is having arguments with their family or putting themselves in dangerous situations because of their choice of substance, it is likely that they have a problem.

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In order to get CUD under control, it is important that people stop their cannabis use for a period of time and monitor their body’s response to it. If the person is unable to complete it or finds the challenge extremely difficult, professional help may be needed. Psychiatrists and psychologists often treat addictions with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). These treatments are typically short-term, with the therapist providing the client with tools that can help them rewire their brain and change the way they think and act.