Want to know if your cannabis use is becoming a problem? This will help you identify the symptoms of cannabis use disorder so you can act if needed.
Key Takeaways
- Cannabis Use Disorder (CUD) affects 9.3% of cannabis users, early intervention is key to preventing full blown addiction.
- Genetic predisposition, environmental factors and using before 18 increase the risk of CUD.
- Counselling, therapy and family support are the treatment for CUD, there are no approved medications specifically for its treatment
Cannabis Use Disorder Symptoms: What to Look for
A diagnosis called cannabis use disorder (CUD) commonly referred to as marijuana use disorder is given to people who struggle with problematic marijuana use. 9.3% of cannabis users are affected by this. What starts as casual or experimental use can turn into a full blown substance use disorder that disrupts life and early intervention can stop the progression to full blown addiction.
Various factors contribute to an individual developing cannabis dependence including genetic factors which account for 40-60% of the risk. This means some people are more prone to addiction because of their genes. Environmental contexts like family dynamics and peer influences around cannabis use habits shape the trajectory of drug use and these are big contributors to dependence. Using before 18 increases the risk of CUD, that’s why early intervention is key.
As time goes by, there’s been an increase in potencies of cannabis products—techniques like dabbing have increased the addictive properties of it—with a staggering statistic showing nearly a third of current users showing signs of long term addiction. Bringing up CUD symptoms early on allows for treatment options to be explored so people can avoid harm from long term substance use.
Introduction
CUD is a serious and common public health issue. Despite being seen as harmless, cannabis addiction should not be taken lightly. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders classifies this as a substance abuse disorder, meaning marijuana can cause significant psychological distress or impairment. The DSM-5 considers cannabis use disorder as a single disorder that encompasses the previous separate diagnoses of cannabis abuse and cannabis dependence.
Among young adults, the use of marijuana and cannabis is common—so it’s important to recognize its addictive nature. Interactions between people with CUD and the criminal justice system requires a whole of system approach to cannabis addiction. By understanding both the symptoms, negative consequences, and impact from a marijuana addiction, we can develop support systems and know when to get help and where to get help.
What is Cannabis Use Disorder
Cannabis use disorder is the term for problematic patterns of marijuana use which can develop from experimental use into a full blown substance use disorder. It’s important to recognize CUD is a real issue not a myth or misconception. In the official taxonomy of mental disorders in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM-5), which is written by the american psychiatric association, CUD is classified under substance use disorders with specific criteria for diagnosis. In mental health circles there’s recognition of the seriousness of a marijuana use disorder.
To diagnose cannabis use disorder, clinicians require symptoms to be present for at least one year. An array approach considering individual history—including past episodes of substance abuse—and any current mental health problems helps with diagnosis. Genetic factors are big contributors to CUD. They account for 40-60% of the risk of developing this condition—risk that’s increased when using a high cannabis potency strain or through intense methods like dabbing.
Tolerance builds up through continued use and leads men and women down the path to drug abuse, dependence and addiction—as more and more is needed to get the same high they got from lower doses. The variation of cannabis dependence helps those who have moved beyond marijuana use to having physical or psychological problems meet the criteria and be diagnosed from mild to severe levels across the Cannabis Use Disorder spectrum.
Symptoms of Cannabis Use Disorder
To be diagnosed with cannabis use disorder a person must have at least two symptoms over the course of one year. These symptoms are varied across physical, psychological, and behavioral domains. Recognizing these symptoms is the first step to seeking treatment.
On a behavioral level, telltale signs of marijuana addiction include cognitive impairment, diminished performance academically or professionally, avoiding social interaction and disinterest in previously pleasurable pursuits. Physical manifestations typically include bloodshot eyes, an accelerated heart rate and when smoking marijuana, ongoing coughing issues. Persistent heavy marijuana use can escalate to chronic respiratory problems or elevated cardiac risks, which carry substantial adverse effects.
Users may suffer from mental health conditions as side effects such as a generalized anxiety disorder or heightened anxiety levels, feelings of paranoia as well as memory difficulties. The onset of cannabis withdrawal symptoms and related challenges such as difficulty sleeping and troubles achieving restful sleep stand out amongst others and usually are most obvious within the first week of discontinuing cannabis use. Other withdrawal symptoms may include nightmares and irritability.
Physical Symptoms of Cannabis Use Disorder
Cannabis use can lead to a range of physical signs that indicate dependence. Chronic smokers who abuse marijuana will have ongoing coughs and recurring lung infections which can impact daily life. Recognize these symptoms early to manage them.
Stopping cannabis use can cause physical discomfort and abdominal pain is one of the symptoms. Long term use has been linked to racing heart and nausea. These physical reactions show how it reacts to dependence and withdrawal from cannabis and why medical attention is needed.
The Endocannabinoid System and Cannabis Use on the Brain in Women
The endocannabinoid system plays an important role in brain development and function. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a big network of receptors, enzymes and endocannabinoids that control many functions in the body including mood, sleep, appetite and brain development. It’s most active during adolescence and early adulthood, the critical period of brain maturation. Cannabis, which has THC, mimics the body’s natural endocannabinoids and binds to ECS receptors, especially CB1 receptors in the brain.
For women, using cannabis during developmental stages can mess with normal brain processes, including formation of neural connections and emotional regulation. This can affect areas like the prefrontal cortex which is responsible for decision making, impulse control and cognitive performance. Women may also be more sensitive to cannabis due to hormonal fluctuations and may be more likely to experience long term changes to brain structure and function.
In short, while ECS is important for healthy brain development, using cannabis during formative years can mess with those processes in women and lead to cognitive, emotional and mental health issues later on.
CHRNA2 Gene
A change in the CHRNA2 gene on chromosome 8 is associated with cannabis use disorder.
The CHRNA2 gene can predispose women to cannabis use disorder by changing brain signaling and reward pathways. A variation or change in the CHRNA2 gene has been found to be associated with CUD in women which can cause an increased risk of addiction This gene can change how the brain’s reward system responds to cannabis. This can increase the risk of dependence and addiction.
These genetic changes in young women whose brains are still developing can magnify the risk of the use of cannabis disrupting normal processes like decision making, impulse control and emotional regulation.
Women are more sensitive to genetic and hormonal influences when it comes to substance use, abuse, and disorders may find that this variation interacts with estrogen or other hormonal factors and increase the risk of cannabis use disorder and its long term consequences.
Cognitive and mental health issues in women with the CHRNA2 gene variant who use cannabis may be more likely to experience cognitive impairment, anxiety or mood disorders.
Psychological Symptoms of Cannabis Use Disorder
Those with cannabis use disorder (CUD) will often experience psychological symptoms. Symptoms like anxiety, paranoia and memory problems are common in CUD. Frequent cannabis use can also increase the risk of developing social anxiety disorder which can severely impact social interaction and relationships. Around 50% of people who experience a mental health condition will also experience a substance use disorder.
Research shows that in some cases, especially for women, anxiety can be exacerbated by cannabis use. This suggests a complex relationship between the condition and anxiety disorders. Along with these emotional problems come cognitive problems. Heavy cannabis users may find their problem solving abilities and performance on various cognitive tasks impaired due to changes in the neural networks.
Recognize these psychological symptoms because they can ruin someone’s life. Recognize them early, and you have options for treatment that can reduce long-term damage.
Behavioral Symptoms of Cannabis Use Disorder
Behavioral changes are one of the most obvious symptoms of cannabis use disorder. People will withdraw from social activities, show less interest in relationships and activities that used to bring them pleasure. This can lead to a huge decline in social interaction and overall life satisfaction.
Cannabis use can make users avoid responsibilities and skip social commitments. Spending more time getting or using cannabis can be a sign of dependence. Those with CUD will do secret things to hide their use, create distance between themselves, friends and family.
Mood swings and aggression are common reactions when someone questions an individual about their cannabis use. These behavioral changes show the extent of CUD in daily life— distorted perception and impaired motor skills.
Cannabis Use Disorder and Women’s Mental Health
Cannabis use disorder can have different psychological effects on females, affecting their mental wellbeing in ways that are different to males. Females who use cannabis are more prone to acute psychiatric effects including depression and anxiety. This gender difference means we need to have interventions for women.
Cannabis use can trigger pre-existing mental health conditions in women. For example, those with bipolar disorder may find that regular cannabis use makes their symptoms worse than those who don’t use it. Heavy cannabis users are more likely to have suicidal thoughts. This shows the extent of CUD can affect someone’s mental state.
Get Treatment at The Rose House
The Rose House offers a whole person treatment approach, addressing the psychological, emotional, physical, spiritual and cognitive healing for women with addiction. Our treatment facility addresses trauma and mental health issues alongside addiction and provides a comprehensive recovery plan. The Rose House is a women’s only addiction and mental health center in Colorado.
What sets The Rose House apart is the focus on underlying trauma and whole person healing. The leadership team including the Executive Director is involved in the day to day operations so clients get personalized care and attention.
Women ready to stop using cannabis can find a safe and supportive environment at The Rose House. Most cannabis withdrawal symptoms begin during the first week of abstinence. Cannabis withdrawal symptoms typically resolve after a few weeks. About 12% of heavy cannabis users show cannabis withdrawal symptoms as defined by the DSM-5.
Treatment for Cannabis Use Disorder
In the United States, cannabis is the most commonly identified substance used by people admitted to treatment facilities. Cannabis use disorder requires therapeutic interventions including counseling and psychological therapy, no medication has been approved for this purpose. Therapies that have been shown to reduce cannabis use are cognitive-behavioral therapy, motivational enhancement therapy and Twelve-Step facilitation. These established methods provide structure for those wanting to overcome CUD as there is currently no medication approved by the FDA specifically for treating cannabis use disorder. Research is being conducted on potential medications for cannabis use disorder, but none are proven effective yet.
Mindful practices and motivational techniques can also reduce cannabis use. Treatment plans need to acknowledge any co-occurring mental health conditions as treating CUD and mental health issues together will yield better outcomes. This holistic approach means comprehensive care throughout an individual’s recovery.
The Rose House offers gender specific care by addressing not only substance use disorders but also conditions that are unique to women. By recognizing the needs of women within their services The Rose House promotes long term healing and mental wellbeing.
Family Support in Recovery
Family support is helpful in overcoming cannabis use disorder. Family encouragement and involvement can increase a person’s commitment to getting and staying sober. This kind of support gives individuals recovering from use disorders the tools to overcome obstacles and stick to their treatment plan.
For families, learning how to set boundaries and not enable behaviors that can hinder the recovery journey is very important. Family focused approaches have been shown to be effective especially with young adult women who are struggling with cannabis use.
Family members have said they appreciate the care and support The Rose House has given to their loved ones who are struggling with cannabis issues, they’ve seen noticeable improvements and progress during recovery.
Barriers to Seeking Treatment
Many barriers can stop people from seeking treatment for a cannabis use disorder. Shame or fear of being judged can stop people from admitting they have a problem and seeking help. Cost and lack of access to professional care especially in rural areas blocks access to treatment.
These barriers stop people from getting help, we need to raise awareness and support for those with all substance use disorders including cannabis. We need to overcome these barriers so all affected can get the resources and support they need for their recovery.
Summary
Recognizing the signs of cannabis use disorder and the impact on physical, mental and behavioral health is the first step to seeking help. CUD requires a holistic approach with evidence based treatments and family support. The Rose House is a safe space for women to heal and recover, whole person and trauma informed care.
We need to break the stigma around cannabis addiction and encourage those affected to get treatment. By raising awareness and supporting we can help people overcome CUD and live healthier happier lives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common signs of cannabis use disorder are physical signs like persistent cough and red eyes, psychological issues like anxiety and memory problems, social withdrawal and neglecting responsibilities.
Cannabis use disorder affects women’s mental health, increasing the severity of psychiatric symptoms like depression and anxiety and worsening existing mental health conditions.
Effective treatment options for cannabis use disorder include counseling and psychotherapy methods like cognitive-behavioral therapy and motivational enhancement therapy, along with holistic approaches and mindfulness practices to aid recovery.
Support from family members is essential for those recovering from cannabis use disorder because it increases their motivation, offers support, and helps overcome obstacles.
It’s important to set firm boundaries to avoid behaviors that inadvertently enable the continuation of the use disorder.
People with cannabis use disorder often face barriers when seeking help, shame or fear of being judged, cost and lack of access to professional treatment especially in rural areas.
It is essential to overcome these hurdles in order to enhance the availability of treatments and the results for those suffering from this use disorder.
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