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  • What Is Marijuana Addiction?What Is Marijuana Addiction?
  • Signs of AddictionSigns of Addiction
  • Common SymptomsCommon Symptoms
  • Possible CausesPossible Causes
  • When Use Becomes AddictionWhen Use Becomes Addiction
  • Short & Long-Term RisksShort & Long-Term Risks
  • Treatment OptionsTreatment Options
  • Coping With AddictionCoping With Addiction
  • ConclusionConclusion
  • Additional ResourcesAdditional Resources
  • InfographicsInfographics
Substance Use Articles Substance Use Disorder Alcoholism Best Sobriety Apps Online MAT Programs

Marijuana Addiction: Signs, Symptoms & Treatments

Matt Glowiak PhD CPC headshot

Author: Matt Glowiak, PhD, LCPC

Matt Glowiak PhD CPC headshot

Matt Glowiak PhD, LCPC

Matt specializes in major depressive disorder, anxiety disorder, bipolar I and II, BPD, OCD, PTSD, and schizophrenia.

See My Bio Editorial Policy
Lynn Byars, MD

Medical Reviewer: Lynn Byars, MD Licensed medical reviewer

Published: September 14, 2023
  • What Is Marijuana Addiction?What Is Marijuana Addiction?
  • Signs of AddictionSigns of Addiction
  • Common SymptomsCommon Symptoms
  • Possible CausesPossible Causes
  • When Use Becomes AddictionWhen Use Becomes Addiction
  • Short & Long-Term RisksShort & Long-Term Risks
  • Treatment OptionsTreatment Options
  • Coping With AddictionCoping With Addiction
  • ConclusionConclusion
  • Additional ResourcesAdditional Resources
  • InfographicsInfographics
Headshot of Matt Glowiak, PhD, LCPC
Written by:

Matt Glowiak

PhD, LCPC
Headshot of Lynn Byars, MD, MPH, FACP
Reviewed by:

Lynn Byars

MD, MPH, FACP

Marijuana addiction is a pervasive medical condition in which one becomes reliant on marijuana. Individuals addicted to marijuana continue using the substance despite the associated consequences. With therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes, many can learn to overcome cravings and achieve long-lasting recovery.

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What Is Marijuana Addiction?

Marijuana addiction (clinical cannabis user disorder) is when individuals continue using the substance despite negative physical, cognitive, emotional, social, and legal consequences.1 People struggling with addiction develop a psychological dependence on marijuana, often alongside physical reliance, health problems, and compulsive use.

Some argue that marijuana is not addictive. However, one study determined that marijuana was ranked 11 out of the major medically classified drugs.2,3 In fact, roughly 1 in 10 marijuana users will become addicted, with rates increasing to 1 in 6 for individuals under 18.4

Why Is Weed Addictive?

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the active agent in marijuana that creates a euphoric high. THC has a similar structure to the natural chemical anandamide in the brain, allowing it to act as a neurotransmitter.5 THC can impact areas of the brain that influence pleasure, memory, thinking, concentration, movement, coordination, and sensory and time perception.5

Individuals consuming marijuana activate the brain’s pleasure pathway. People are hardwired to gravitate toward things and substances that elicit pleasure. Therefore, some may continue using addictive drugs like marijuana to continue experiencing these desired effects.

Signs of Marijuana Use & Addiction

Signs of marijuana addiction often manifest through gradual but drastic behavioral changes. For example, children and teens may become withdrawn, defiant, or secretive. Adults may show similar behaviors alongside relationship problems, failure to meet parental obligations, and financial issues.

Below are common signs of marijuana use and addiction:1

  • Impaired motor coordination
  • Increased anxiety
  • Impaired judgment
  • Social withdrawal
  • Poor academic or work performance
  • Marijuana paraphernalia
  • Changes in social circles
  • Refusing to follow authority
  • Falling behind on responsibilities

Symptoms of Marijuana Addiction

The symptoms of marijuana use vary depending on the individual and extent of use. Many cannabis use disorder symptoms are similar to those experienced while intoxicated but are more pervasive and severe. The more manifestations present, the greater the likelihood that one is struggling with marijuana addiction.

Common symptoms of marijuana addiction include:6

  • Bloodshot eyes
  • Distorted perception
  • Dizziness
  • Dry mouth
  • Feeling “high” or euphoria
  • Impaired coordination
  • Impair judgment
  • Increased appetite
  • Lack of motivation
  • Memory impairment
  • Nervous or paranoid behavior
  • Relaxed state, sleepiness
  • Slowed or poor coordination
  • Slowed reaction time
  • Weight gain

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What Causes Marijuana Addiction?

The causes and triggers of marijuana addiction vary, but genetic vulnerability is a significant factor. While chronic use can lead to addiction over months or years, those with genetic vulnerability often experience the onset of addiction more rapidly.7 However, anyone consuming marijuana without proper precautions risks becoming addicted. As the alcohol advertisements on television remind consumers to “drink responsibly,” the same applies here.

Common causes and triggers of marijuana addiction include:

  • Easy access to marijuana
  • Having an addictive personality
  • Being bored or alone
  • Experiencing acute or chronic pain
  • Facing significant loss or grief
  • Family history of use
  • Genetic vulnerability
  • Having a history of trauma
  • Mental health or other substance use disorder (potentially developing a cross addiction)

When Does Marijuana Use Become Addiction?

Individuals can experience marijuana addiction when use consumes their lives. Weed is no longer used casually and has become a necessity. For medicinal users, misuse of the drug primarily indicates addiction.

Signs of problematic marijuana use include:8

  • Continuing to take marijuana when no longer medically necessary
  • Requiring increased amounts of marijuana to achieve the desired effects
  • Experiencing emotional instability, lethargy, or physical discomfort when effects subside
  • Continuing to use despite a desire to stop or associated consequences
  • Spending significant time thinking about and acquiring marijuana
  • Increased marijuana use over longer periods than intended
  • Engaging in physically hazardous activities to self or others while under the influence
  • Stealing or borrowing money to pay for marijuana
  • Becoming distant from and struggling to get along with loved ones and friends
  • Getting too much or too little sleep
  • Eating too much or too little
  • Surrounding oneself with those who engage in the same problematic behavior
  • Doctor shopping for prescription marijuana or stealing from others
  • Combining marijuana with alcohol and recreational drugs

Health Risks of Marijuana Addiction

Although medicinal marijuana has proven medical benefits, misuse can lead to addiction and associated health risks. Those struggling with marijuana addiction risk negative impacts on brain health, mental health, athletic performance, and daily life.9 The more one consumes, the higher the likelihood of long-term effects.

Short-Term Health Risks of Marijuana Addiction

Short-term health risks tend to occur during use and shortly after marijuana consumption. Impacts are acute but may impair faculties to the extent of creating additional hazards. For instance, poor coordination may increase the likelihood of trips, falls, and other bodily injury.

Common short-term health risks of marijuana use include:10

  • Altered senses, such as seeing brighter colors
  • Altered sense of time, such as minutes seeming like hours
  • Changes in mood
  • Problems with body movement
  • Trouble with thinking, problem-solving, and memory
  • Increased appetite

Long-Term Health Risks of Marijuana Addiction

The long-term impacts of marijuana use and addiction occur well beyond consumption. Continued use can compound these effects and worsen outcomes.

Long-term health risks of marijuana use may include:10

  • Problems with brain development, including thinking, memory, and learning
  • Coughing and breathing problems
  • Problems with child development during and after pregnancy

Marijuana Addiction Treatment

Comprehensive treatment is best when addressing the multiple aspects of marijuana addiction. The type of treatment and subsequent setting varies by need and personal preference. Some individuals may benefit from residential treatments, like rehab, while others prefer outpatient or intensive outpatient programs (IOP).

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT for addiction focuses on maladaptive beliefs and values contributing to problematic thoughts and subsequent behaviors. For example, a common idea is that marijuana is completely safe and consumption is okay, leading to the ultimate use of the substance.

In CBT sessions, the therapist and patient may work together to adjust the belief to one that accurately recognizes the risks involved. Thoughts become more discretionary, and use is minimized or discontinued.

Family Counseling

Family counseling is helpful when marijuana use by a single or multiple users impacts the family as a whole. Therapists can help them process emotional disturbances, set boundaries, and work on healthier communication. Everyone can work together to support and hold one another accountable.

Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET)

Motivational enhancement therapy (MET) assists individuals in improving their motivation to change their problematic use and overcome marijuana addiction.11 Change can only occur when individuals are motivated to address their unhealthy substance use. MET provides a jump start in this therapeutic process.

Medication

Currently, there are no FDA-approved medications specifically for marijuana addiction. However, some medications, such as buspirone, can help reduce symptoms of marijuana withdrawal.12 In some cases, medication-assisted treatment (MAT) can be especially beneficial because it couples therapy with medications to combat addiction. Consult a medical professional about any medications and only take prescriptions as recommended.

Living With Marijuana Addiction

Many professionals tell patients to change “persons, places, and things” associated with marijuana use. Those intending to take recovery seriously should consider distancing from any triggers. Otherwise, individuals can fall back into the cycle of misuse and addiction.

Living with marijuana addiction presents challenges. However, recovery is manageable so long as you remain intentional and consistent. Treatment can provide knowledge, insights, and healthy coping skills to help work through cravings and other triggers. Reaching out for support is invaluable when struggling.

Focus on improving your emotional, environmental, financial, intellectual, occupational, physical, social, and spiritual well-being.13 Keeping these aspects balanced can aid in achieving long-term recovery and success.

Below are ways to cope with marijuana addiction:

  • Attending support groups
  • Avoiding activities that fuel urges and cravings
  • Distancing from triggering persons, places, and things
  • Eating healthier and exercising
  • Engaging in wholesome activities and hobbies
  • Journaling or partaking in a healthy creative expression
  • Meditating or praying
  • Removing marijuana and marijuana paraphernalia from the home
  • Seeing a therapist
  • Speaking with regular support

Final Thoughts

Living with marijuana addiction is challenging, but help is available for those ready to recover. Consider speaking with a local professional to review treatment options and start your journey toward healing.

Additional Resources

To help our readers take the next step in their mental health journey, ChoosingTherapy.com has partnered with leaders in mental health and wellness. ChoosingTherapy.com is compensated for marketing by the companies included below.

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For Further Reading

  • Fentanyl-laced Weed
  • Marijuana Anonymous
  • Narcotics Anonymous
  • SMART Recovery
  • Best Apps for Addiction Recovery
  • Aversion Therapy: How It Works & What to Expect
  • Addiction vs Dependence: Understanding the Differences
  • Cannabis (Marijuana): What It is & Side Effects
  • CBD Vaping: Everything You Need To Know

Best Online Medication-Assisted Treatment Programs

Best Online Medication-Assisted Treatment Programs

Online medication-assisted treatment programs are fairly new to the telehealth industry, but existing companies are expanding quickly with new programs emerging every day. It’s important to explore your options and understand the level of virtual care available so you can choose the best addiction treatment program for you.

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Best Mindful Drinking Apps

Best Mindful Drinking Apps

If you’re thinking about joining the sober curious movement and you’d like to cut back on drinking, mindful drinking apps are a great place to start. Practicing mindful drinking can take some time, attention, and patience, but with the help of the right app, you can completely transform your relationship with alcohol.

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Marijuana Addiction Infographics

What Is Marijuana Addiction? Signs of Marijuana Addiction Marijuana Addiction Treatment

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Sources Update History

ChoosingTherapy.com strives to provide our readers with mental health content that is accurate and actionable. We have high standards for what can be cited within our articles. Acceptable sources include government agencies, universities and colleges, scholarly journals, industry and professional associations, and other high-integrity sources of mental health journalism. Learn more by reviewing our full editorial policy.

  • American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition.

  • Nutt, D., et al. (2007). Development of a rational scale to assess the harm of drugs of potential misuse. The Lancet, 369(9566), 1047–1053. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0140-6736(07)60464-4

  • McGhee, M. (2019). Marijuana addiction, abuse, and symptoms. Retrieved from https://www.help.org/marijuana-addiction/

  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (CDC). (2018). Is it possible for someone to become addicted to marijuana? Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/marijuana/faqs/marijuana-addiction.html.

  • National Institute on Drug Abuse. (NIDA). (2020). How does marijuana produce its effects? Retrieved from https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/research-reports/marijuana/how-does-marijuana-produce-its-effects

  • Jeurgens, J. & Parisi, T. (2019). Signs of marijuana abuse. Retrieved from https://www.addictioncenter.com/drugs/marijuana/symptoms-signs/

  • Life Center of Galax. (n.d.). Marijuana Addiction Signs & Symptoms. Retrieved from: https://www.galaxrecovery.com/addiction/marijuana/signs-symptoms-withdrawals/

  • Mayo Clinic. (n.d.). Drug addiction (substance use disorder). Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/drug-addiction/symptoms-causes/syc-20365112

  • Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (SAMHSA). (2020). Know the risks of marijuana. Retrieved from https://www.samhsa.gov/marijuana

  • National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2017). Marijuana. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/marijuana.html

  •  Addiction Center. (2022). Motivational Enhancement Therapy. Retrieved from https://www.addictioncenter.com/treatment/motivational-enhancement-therapy/

  • Weinstein, A., & Gorelick, D. A. (2011). Pharmacological treatment of cannabis dependence. Current Pharmaceutical Design, 17(14), 1351–1358. https://doi.org/10.2174/138161211796150846

  • Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). (2016). The Eight Dimensions of Wellness. Retrieved from https://www.samhsa.gov/wellness-initiative/eight-dimensions-wellness

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We regularly update the articles on ChoosingTherapy.com to ensure we continue to reflect scientific consensus on the topics we cover, to incorporate new research into our articles, and to better answer our audience’s questions. When our content undergoes a significant revision, we summarize the changes that were made and the date on which they occurred. We also record the authors and medical reviewers who contributed to previous versions of the article. Read more about our editorial policies here.

September 14, 2023
Author: No Change
Reviewer: No Change
Primary Changes: Edited for readability and clarity. Reviewed and added relevant resources.
December 2, 2020
Author: Matt Glowiak, PhD, LCPC
Reviewer: Lynn Byars, MD
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