Why Believing You Can’t Get Hooked on Pot is a Dangerous Myth: Insights from Experts

Dr. Smita Das frequently encounters a common misconception: that marijuana isn’t addictive. As more states legalize cannabis for recreational and medicinal use, this myth is gaining traction. However, she emphasizes that cannabis can lead to addiction, known as cannabis use disorder. Recent data from the CDC reveals that nearly 30% of those who use cannabis may develop this condition.

Signs of Cannabis Use Disorder

If marijuana starts affecting your daily activities, health, or relationships, it might be time to reconsider your use. The risk of developing a disorder increases with higher levels of consumption. In the past, marijuana’s THC levels were relatively low, often under 5%. Today, many products can reach THC levels of 40% or more, raising concerns about addiction potential.

Cannabis use disorder is assessed based on criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. Key indicators include needing more cannabis to achieve the same high, experiencing withdrawal symptoms, and spending excessive time using or seeking the drug.

Understanding Addiction Levels

Experts categorize cannabis use disorder into severity levels. Meeting two criteria suggests a mild case, while six or more indicates a severe issue. According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 7% of individuals aged 12 and older had cannabis use disorder in 2024, with most cases being mild.

It’s important to note that cannabis affects individuals differently. For some, it can drastically impact daily life, while others may not feel any adverse effects. Dr. Das explains that the key lies in how significantly cannabis influences a person’s functioning on a day-to-day basis.

Seeking Help and Support

Many individuals who struggle with cannabis use often seek help for other issues, such as alcohol dependence, only to later recognize their cannabis problems. Dr. Das reassures that effective treatments are available. Two methods gaining prominence are motivational interviewing—which helps find internal motivation to change—and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which addresses negative thought patterns.

Support groups like Marijuana Anonymous can also be beneficial. Community support plays a vital role in recovery, whether in-person or online. Dave Bushnell, a retired executive, started a Reddit community 14 years ago for individuals seeking support for cannabis addiction. His group has amassed over 350,000 members, demonstrating the need for safe spaces where users can discuss their challenges.

Conclusion

Seeking help for cannabis use disorder is crucial, especially given its growing prevalence. Remember, just because cannabis is legal doesn’t mean it’s without risks. As Dr. Das points out, “What matters is how cannabis impacts your life.” If you or someone you know is struggling, don’t hesitate to reach out for support.

For further reading on the effects of the legalization of cannabis and its impacts, check out the CDC’s official report on cannabis use.

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