Cannabis is often at the center of debates about its legalization because it can have devastating short-, medium-, and long-term effects. In fact, even though cannabis is a natural substance, it is not truly harmless. Recent figures show that between 2% and 3% of French people use it daily (one of the highest rates in Europe).
It is important to note that cannabis can be addictive for some people and not at all for others. In fact, not all people who use cannabis for recreational or medical purposes become addicted.
Is cannabis addiction a real thing?
Scientific research shows that cannabis is indeed addictive. About 1 in 10 people who use cannabis will become addicted, according to a 2018 study conducted by Columbia University and the New York State Psychiatric Institute.
Cannabis users may develop physical, psychological, and/or social dependence. Physical symptoms of dependence may include discomfort when a user stops using cannabis regularly, such as weight loss, headaches, mood swings, and/or abdominal pain.
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) now classifies cannabis dependence as a “cannabis use disorder,” defined as “the continued use of cannabis despite impaired mental, physical, or social functioning.”
In fact, when a person continues to use cannabis regularly despite its negative effects on their life, they may lose control over their cannabis use and become dependent on it. People with cannabis use disorders may not realize what is happening, and they may not even realize that their behavior is causing problems for themselves and others. It is estimated that approximately 22.1 million people worldwide (about 0.3% of the global population) suffer from cannabis use disorders.
Is the THC in cannabis addictive?
THC is the chemical component of cannabis that causes changes or euphoric feelings. THC acts on CB1 and CB2 receptors throughout the brain and body. Some of these receptors are found in parts of the brain called reward pathways. By activating this reward pathway, drug-seeking behavior is reinforced. However, tolerance to this euphoric state develops rapidly, requiring higher doses to continue experiencing the same psychological effects. It is this feeling of euphoria that people with cannabis use disorders seek, often prioritizing cannabis over other important activities. So, to answer the question, yes, THC can be addictive.
According to a study conducted by the National Institute on Drug Abuse, cannabis strains that contain high levels of THC and low levels of CBD (also known as Type I cannabis) produce more intense effects. This means that cannabis strains with higher THC content will induce a stronger high, which can make these strains more addictive.
Can CBD be addictive?
More and more people are usingCBD (cannabidiol)oil to relieve various conditions, including chronic pain and inflammation, epilepsy, anxiety, and more.
Although THC can be addictive, there is no evidence that CBD is also addictive. In fact, some preliminary research suggests that CBD may have potential anti-addiction properties.
A 2017 study published in the *Journal of Drug and Alcohol Dependence* analyzed the abuse potential of CBD by administering various oral doses of CBD to regular cannabis users, either alone or in combination with cannabis use (Type I), which contained approximately 5.5% THC. The research team concluded that while THC-containing cannabis does indeed produce subjective effects associated with abuse—since it produces a “high” that leads to dependence—CBD shows no signs of abuse potential.
However, it should be noted that different CBD products may contain varying levels of THC. By law, hemp-derived products cannot contain more than 0.3% THC.
It is interesting to note that some data suggest that CBD could be used to reduce cannabis-related disorders. A 2010 study by University College London surveyed 94 cannabis users who consumed Type I or CBD-rich cannabis strains and then tested them to determine their level of dependence. The researchers found that people who used cannabis with a high CBD content were less likely to become dependent than those who used cannabis with a high THC content. The researchers therefore concluded that CBD could be used to reduce cannabis dependence.
What are the signs of cannabis addiction?
Signs of cannabis addiction include:
- Behavioral symptoms: neglecting personal appearance and hygiene, unexplained absences from work, decreased work performance, overeating, recklessness, etc.
- Physical symptoms: dry mouth, congestion and/or dull eyes, slowed reaction time, motor skill difficulties, poor coordination, fatigue, increased appetite, weight gain.
- Cognitive symptoms: memory problems, decreased concentration, changes in sensory perception, slowed reaction times, and poor decision-making.
- Psychosocial symptoms: irritability, fear, panic, and/or paranoia; decreased interest in activities and topics that were previously important; social withdrawal and isolation.
If you notice any of these signs, consult a substance abuse specialist immediately for appropriate follow-up care or answers to any questions you may have.
How can you overcome cannabis addiction?
People with cannabis dependence who have tried to quit will tell you: attempts to quit on their own, without support or alternatives, sometimes (but fortunately not always) end in failure. In fact, quitting comes with difficult moments that can tempt you to smoke again:
- irritability,
- sleep problems,
- mood swings,
- anxiety,
- excessive sweating,
- etc.
The first step toward a peaceful and lasting recovery from cannabis dependence is to assess your use. If your use is occasional, it’s normal to stop on your own—sometimes after trying it just once. If you use cannabis regularly, it may be wiser to have an initial assessment conducted by an addiction specialist. The specialist can then support the patient and/or refer them to specialized centers, psychologists, hospitals, etc. Treatment generally involves psychological counseling, but in some cases may be supplemented with medication (alternative treatments or medications to relieve symptoms). It’s important to know that there are many organizations dedicated to addiction that offer a listening ear and advice on overcoming cannabis dependence.
It is also important for adolescents undergoing withdrawal to involve their parents and create a supportive and motivating environment.
Conclusion
Although the vast majority of cannabis users are not dependent, about 9% suffer from a cannabis use disorder.
It is important to know that it is possible to become dependent on cannabis, even when used under a doctor’s prescription—just as it is possible for a patient to become dependent on prescription medications. Fortunately, the risks associated with excessive cannabis use are relatively low compared to those of prescription medications, and withdrawal symptoms are more similar to those of caffeine than to those of prescription medications.
Finally, if you are addicted to cannabis, consider asking your family and loved ones for help and consulting a healthcare professional. Today, there are many psychological interventions designed to help people suffering from cannabis-use disorders.
