Cannabis use disorder (CUD) is a type of drug addiction that has been gaining more recognition and understanding in recent years. Following the legalization of medical and recreational marijuana, along with societal acceptance of the drug, abuse and dependence continue to rise.
Despite its popularity and widespread use, it’s crucial to acknowledge that, like any substance, cannabis can lead to dependence and addiction. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of marijuana abuse is the first step toward addressing and treating cannabis addiction.
Cannabis Use Disorder: Can I Become Addicted to Cannabis?
Cannabis use disorder is a recognized condition in which people become dependent on marijuana despite its reputation as a harmless drug. Research shows that roughly 3 in 10 people (30%) who use cannabis have cannabis use disorder, yet many adults who struggle with cannabis use—as well as their loved ones and even professionals looking for clear guidance—do not realize when use has become a problem or when professional treatment is needed.
While marijuana may not be as dangerous as synthetic chemicals, it can still have serious effects on the mind, body, and daily life. Regular use can lead to uncomfortable side effects, withdrawal symptoms after stopping, and longer-term mental, physical, and social harm. This introduction explains what cannabis use disorder is, why people misuse marijuana, the signs of abuse, the health effects and recovery challenges involved, and the treatment options that can help.
Why Do People Abuse Cannabis?
Those who abuse cannabis often perceive their consumption as moderate and purely recreational. However, their chronic marijuana use can become all-encompassing. As a result, people can become preoccupied with obtaining and using the drug, often at the expense of their relationships, work, and other responsibilities.
Chronic use and abuse of cannabis can take many forms for a variety of reasons, such as:
- Socializing
- Encouraging creativity
- Celebrating a good mood
- Escaping a bad mood
- Stimulating their appetite
- Relieving anxiety and tension
- Easing physical discomfort
- Going to sleep
While many people may use marijuana as a way to relax and unwind, chronic users often rely on it as their sole source of coping with stress and negative emotions. This can lead to a dependence on the drug, where they feel unable to function without it.
Signs of Cannabis Abuse
Every day, more cities or states become open to the notion of legalizing cannabis. Many already have. Due to the medicinal benefits that marijuana can have when regulated or administered medically, it has received a reputation for being harmless. Unfortunately, cannabis is not a harmless drug. Abuse and overuse can produce side effects that range from mild to severe.
There are many signs of cannabis abuse to look out for if you think that you or someone you love may be using too much marijuana, but marijuana use alone does not automatically mean someone has a cannabis use disorder diagnosis.
Physical signs of cannabis abuse:
- Dry mouth
- Bloodshot eyes
- Impaired motor skills
- Poor coordination
- Delayed reaction time
- Increased appetite
- Weight gain
- Fatigue
Cognitive signs of cannabis abuse:
- Poor concentration
- Memory loss
- Low motivation and drive
- Depression and agitation
- Apathy
- Anxiety
- Paranoia
- Insomnia
Behavioral signs of cannabis abuse:
- Overeating snack foods
- Declining performance in school or work
- Self-isolating from friends and family
- Smoking weed as a main past time
- Becoming overly involved in drug culture
- Spending excessive amounts of money on marijuana
Many users of marijuana make smoking part of their identity and will tend to flock to and congregate only with others who smoke. Unfortunately, this often normalizes and perpetuates the use of marijuana, making it difficult for people to recognize their own addiction and seek help.
Long-Term Effects of Cannabis Abuse
Marijuana abuse can have significant impacts on physical and mental health, and cannabis dependence is a public health concern because heavy use can contribute to cognitive impairment over time. People who use or abuse marijuana can experience a wide variety of side effects.
Heavy marijuana use has been linked to physical health conditions such as:
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Respiratory issues (Bronchitis and lung infections)
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Cardiovascular issues (Increased heart rate and blood pressure)
People who routinely smoke cannabis of cannabis can also damage their lungs. Regardless of what you are burning, inhalation of any kind of smoke contains carcinogens and irritants that are toxic or detrimental to lung health. According to Lung.org, “research shows that smoking marijuana causes chronic bronchitis… smoking marijuana leads to symptoms such as chronic cough, phlegm production, wheeze, and acute bronchitis.”
Chronic cannabis use also increases the risk of developing mental health disorders such as:
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Anxiety
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Depression
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Paranoia
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Drug-induced psychosis
The long-term effects of cannabis use can affect memory, concentration, and overall cognitive functioning, and they may also interfere with brain development in teens and young adults, with heavy marijuana use potentially leading to lost IQ points. High-potency cannabis carries increased risk for cannabis use disorder, dependence, and adverse effects.
For those who think they may have a problem with chronic cannabis use, it is important to seek help. Royal Life Detox can provide a safe and supportive environment for individuals looking to break free from their dependence on marijuana.
Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS)
Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) is a relatively recent and perplexing condition that has emerged with the increasing prevalence of chronic cannabis more use. People suffering from CHS experience cyclic episodes of severe nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Unlike other vomiting disorders, CHS only occurs due to chronic cannabis use.
While many believe cannabis only aids in relieving gastrointestinal discomfort, CHS proves that chronic abuse can make stomach issues return with a vengeance. Unfortunately, guests who are unaware of this syndrome often engage in more cannabis consumption in an attempt to alleviate their symptoms, not realizing it is exacerbating their condition. Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome highlights the need for more education on the potential side effects of habitual cannabis use and abuse.
What Is Scromiting?
One of the most alarming symptoms of CHS is “scromiting,” a fusion of “screaming” and “vomiting.” This term vividly captures the harrowing episodes of uncontrollable retching paired with agonized screams—a stark indicator of the intense discomfort sufferers endure.
Not only is scromiting physically exhausting but it is also mentally and emotionally debilitating. Often, these symptoms can significantly impact a person’s quality of life and result in repeated hospital visits. For this reason, true recovery requires the complete cessation of cannabis use. Quitting weed, like any drug, is a difficult journey, especially for those unaware of the connection between their symptoms and their marijuana use.
Overcoming the Long Term Effects of Cannabis Use
It may be even harder for the cannabis user than for users of other substances to overcome denial, not just because the drug impairs judgement but because it prevents the user from gaining any useful insight into his feelings or behavior, which can also mask co-occurring mental health conditions; in fact, about half of people with those conditions also have substance use disorders. Clouded judgement and impaired perception making are very real effects of marijuana use. It’s not easy to see the negative side of use when you are high.
Emotional problems associated with marijuana are complex, affecting behavior and motivation. They may take as long as a year to resolve, and cannabis use disorder, like other addiction issues, may require ongoing care. Royal Life Centers provides a comprehensive addiction treatment program that will use intensive therapies and other proven-effective methods of addiction treatment to transform you into the person you always wanted to be. You are not alone, and it is important to remember that an addiction to any substance is difficult to overcome – even cannabis.
Marijuana Withdrawal
Chronic marijuana abuse can result in withdrawal symptoms when people try to stop using the drug. While marijuana withdrawal isn’t typically as dangerous or painful as other substances, you may experience some unpleasant symptoms if you do decide to quit marijuana without professional assistance.
Common marijuana withdrawal symptoms include:
- Irritability
- Depression
- Headaches
- Restlessness
- Difficulty sleeping
- Decreased appetite
- Fevers, chills and sweating
- Intense cravings for marijuana
These uncomfortable feelings often drive individuals to continue using cannabis as a means to alleviate them. However, after someone seeks help for a cannabis use disorder, their recovery process is often quicker than for alcohol or other drugs. Due to the minimal risks associated with marijuana detox, those who quit using the drug often experience rapid improvement in alertness and mental agility. It’s been described as “coming out of a fog.”
What To Expect In Marijuana Addiction Recovery?
Overcoming marijuana addiction can be particularly challenging in a society where cannabis use has become widely normalized. Since marijuana is often associated with youth culture, therapists face the delicate task of encouraging abstinence while helping individuals maintain meaningful connections with their peers and social circles. Many young people build their friendships and identities around marijuana use, and quitting can feel like losing a part of themselves or even necessitating a complete shift in their social groups.
If you’ve decided to quit using marijuana, it’s important to approach the process with an open mind and patience. Understand that your counselors are not “against” you or your friends. Their goal is to help you avoid the long-term consequences of continued drug use. Therapists will support you in building self-esteem, finding healthier ways to solve problems, and discovering more rewarding activities to enrich your life. For additional accountability, your treatment plan may include periodic urine tests during outpatient rehabilitation.
You may also be advised to distance yourself from friends who use cannabis or other substances. While this might feel extreme or even impossible at first, it’s a necessary step. Continuing to associate with individuals who use marijuana significantly increases the risk of relapse, and long-term marijuana use often leads to experimentation with harder drugs.
During cannabis addiction treatment, it’s vital to feel that you have someone to turn to during moments of stress or when you’re at risk of relapse. The goal is to create a supportive and positive environment where you can thrive, rather than turning to drugs or drug-using social circles for a false sense of comfort. With the right support system, you can break free from marijuana dependency and build a healthier, more fulfilling life.
Marijuana Addiction Treatment Options
At Royal Life Detox, we specialize in providing compassionate care and comprehensive treatment for those struggling with cannabis use disorder. Understanding the risks associated with CUD is essential for users and their loved ones. Chronic cannabis use can impact mental health, leading to conditions such as anxiety or depression, and can also affect physical health, cognitive abilities, and social relationships. Treatment at Royal Life Detox is tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual, incorporating research-based treatment options such as behavioral therapy, contingency management, counseling, support groups, and holistic treatments designed to heal the whole person. In some cases, contingency management may reinforce attendance at counseling sessions and negative drug screens through rewards. There are currently no FDA-approved medications specifically for cannabis use disorder, though some medications have been studied. Marijuana Anonymous also offers free peer-support for cannabis addiction. Our commitment is to offer a path toward recovery that respects the dignity and complexity of every individual’s journey.
Cannabis Detox in Prescott, Arizona
Breaking free from marijuana addiction can be difficult, and some people face barriers like cost, transportation, lack of motivation, or not knowing which treatment facilities to contact, which can delay access to appropriate treatment options, but Royal Life Detox is here to support you every step of the way. Our team of professionals is dedicated to providing compassionate and effective treatment for cannabis use disorder.
You don’t have to let cannabis abuse control your life any longer. Contact our admissions department and take the first step towards a healthier and happier future.
Because We Care.
If you would like to learn more about Royal Life Centers
- Prevalence of Marijuana Use Disorders in the United States Between 2001–2002 and 2012–2013
- Marijuana and Lung Health | American Lung Association
- The Effects, Risks and Side Effects of Marijuana (Weed, Cannabis, THC) | SAMHSA
- Understanding Your Risk for Cannabis Use Disorder
- Cannabis/Marijuana Use Disorder > Fact Sheets > Yale Medicine