Is marijuana addictive?

Are you wondering "Is marijuana addictive?” As more states legalize cannabis for medicinal and recreational use, many people are wondering whether weed is addictive or not. 

In this article, we will explore what addiction is, and whether marijuana can be considered addictive. We will also explore the signs of marijuana addiction and the resources available for those who may be struggling with addiction. Whether you're a curious new user or a heavy consumer, this article will provide you with the information you need to understand the risks and benefits of marijuana use. So, if you're wondering "Is marijuana addictive?”, read on to find out.

Is weed addictive?

Can you get addicted to cannabis? Addiction is a complicated topic. A person can become addicted to a harmful illegal drug like heroin as well as substances easily purchased at any grocery store like sugar, caffeine, and alcohol. We want you to be informed about addiction and marijuana so you can make the best decision for yourself to consume, or not to consume cannabis, and to recognize if you can become at-risk for marijuana addiction.

What is the definition of addiction?

The American Society of Addiction Medicine defines addiction as "a treatable, chronic medical disease involving complex interactions among brain circuits, genetics, the environment, and an individual’s life experiences. People with addiction use substances or engage in behaviors that become compulsive and often continue despite harmful consequences." 

Examples of addictions include, but are not limited to:

• Being addicted to gambling
• Being addicted to stealing
• Being addicted to video games
• Being addicted to working
• Compulsive buying
• Compulsive sexual behavior
• Drug addictions
• Food addictions
• Problem internet use

Can you get addicted to weed?

If you are wondering "Can you get addicted to weed?" The answer is "Yes, you can get addicted to weed."

The National Institute for Drug Abuse states that marijuana consumption becomes an "addiction when the person cannot stop using the drug even though it interferes with many aspects of his or her life" and that research suggests that "9% of people who use marijuana will become dependent on it."

Research suggests that 9% of cannabis consumers may become dependent on it. However, the rate of marijuana addiction is lower than that of food addiction in the United States, which is estimated to be at 15%. 

The National Institute on Drug Abuse and the American Addiction Centers state that signs of marijuana addiction, also referred to as Cannabis Use Disorder, can include:

• Apathy and indifference
• Appearing tired or run down
• Being chronically late to school, work, and other events
• Challenges at school
• Challenges with financial management
• Changes in appetite
• Changes in behavior
• Changes in physical appearance
• Declining performance at school such as declining grades
• Declining interest in school-related or work-related activities 
• Defensiveness when asked about marijuana use
• Frequent bloodshot eyes
• Increased desire for privacy
• Irritability
• Insomnia 
• Lack of interest in personal appearance
• Mood difficulties
• Not paying bills on time
• Physical discomfort (if marijuana is not consumed)
• Poor self-care such as poor hygiene 
• Poor skin tone
• Poor work performance and receiving poor performance reviews
• Requesting to borrow money
• Restlessness
• Significant and noticeable changes in energy when completing normal daily activities 
• Significant and noticeable changes in relationships
• Sleep difficulties
• Spending more money
• Weight gain or weight loss
• Wearing dirty and/or inappropriate clothing

Am I addicted to weed?

The American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM–5) uses the following 11 criteria to assess substance use disorders:  

1. Using a substance in larger amounts or for longer than intended
2. A wanting/ desire to cut down or stop using the substance but not managing to
3. Spending a lot of time to get, use, and/or recover from the use of the substance
4. Cravings to use the substance
5. An inability to manage commitments due to the use of the substance
6. Continuing to use the substance, even when it causes problems in relationships
7. Giving up important activities because of substance use
8. Using substances again and again, even when it puts you in danger
9. Continuing to use the substance, even though physical and psychological problems could have been caused or made worse by use
10. Increasing tolerance
11. Withdrawal symptoms, alleviated by using the substance

Are you asking yourself "Am I addicted to weed?"

Well, according to Yale Medicine, "For someone to be considered addicted, he or she must meet at least two of the [the American Psychiatric Association’s] 11 criteria.” 

If you are worried that you or a loved one is addicted to weed it is important to speak to a doctor. 

Beating Cannabis Addiction

If you discover that you are addicted to weed there are resources that can help. Beating cannabis addiction resources and treatment options, include but are not limited to:

• 12-Step programs such as Narcotics Anonymous (a support group/ program)
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (a type of counseling with a licensed mental health professional)
• Inpatient Rehabilitation Program (a live-in therapeutic program run by a medical professional)
• Intensive Outpatient Program (a structured therapeutic program run by a medical professional where people visit a hospital or clinic setting and return to their own homes daily)
• Partial Hospitalization Program (a structured therapeutic program run by a medical professional that runs 5-days per week where people visit a hospital or clinic setting and return to their own homes daily)
• Outpatient Rehabilitation Program (a structured therapeutic program for people with mild addictions and good self-discipline)
• SMART recovery programs (a support group/ program)

Conclusions on cannabis and addiction

So, is marijuana addictive? The answer is “Yes, marijuana can be addictive and you are considered to have a marijuana addiction if you have two or more of the criteria to diagnose Cannabis Use Disorder.”

If you have more questions about marijuana and addiction or if you’re concerned you or a loved one might be addicted to weed, we recommend speaking with a licensed medical professional.

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If you're ready to discover new products and reach your goals, download the Jointly app today on the App Store or Google Play, or shop your matches on the Jointly website.   

Are you curious about Jointly?

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So if you're ready to find your best products and enjoy your perfect cannabis experience, download the Jointly app today on the App Store or Google Play, or shop your matches on the Jointly website. Discovery awaits.