substance and addiction prevention branch

Cannabis (Marijuana) Use Disorder

Cannabis use disorder (CUD), also known as marijuana use disorder, is when a person is unable to stop using cannabis, even though it is causing health and social problems in their lives. The risk of developing cannabis use disorder is higher in people who start using cannabis during youth and in people who use cannabis more often. Research suggests that about 22 percent of people who use cannabis have cannabis use disorder.

Signs of cannabis use disorder may include:

Craving cannabis: thinking about and desiring cannabis often
Using more cannabis than intended
Spending a lot of time using cannabis
Using cannabis even though it is causing physical, psychological, relational, or social problems
Using cannabis in high-risk or dangerous situations, such as driving a car
Trying but failing to quit using cannabis
Giving up social activities to use cannabis instead
Needing more cannabis to get the same high
Withdrawal: when stopping cannabis use, having symptoms such as irritability, sleeplessness, decreased appetite, anxiety, and cravings