Medically reviewed by Kevin Wandler, MD, Chief Medical Advisor
Many people grow up hearing that marijuana is harmless or that it is impossible to get hooked on it. The research tells a different story. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) recognizes that some people who use marijuana develop cannabis use disorder, a condition in which they keep using despite problems and have trouble cutting back.
If your cannabis use has started to feel less like a choice and more like a need, you are not overreacting. This article explains how cannabis use disorder develops, what withdrawal can feel like and what treatment looks like for adults in Dallas-Fort Worth.
What Cannabis Use Disorder Looks Like
Cannabis use disorder is diagnosed when a pattern of use causes meaningful problems in a person’s life. It can range from mild to severe. Common features include:
- Using more marijuana, or for longer, than you planned
- Wanting to cut down and not being able to
- Spending a lot of time getting, using or recovering from marijuana
- Strong cravings
- Falling behind on work, school or home responsibilities
- Giving up activities you used to enjoy
- Needing more to get the same effect
- Feeling irritable, anxious or unable to sleep when you stop
NIDA notes that the risk of developing a problem is higher for people who start using at a young age and for those who use frequently. For a deeper look at the science, read our article on whether marijuana is addictive.
Why Today’s Products Are Different
The marijuana available today is often much stronger than what was common in past decades. Concentrates, vape cartridges and edibles can deliver large amounts of THC, the compound responsible for the high. Higher potency can raise the risk of dependence and of negative mental health effects.
In Texas, many people also encounter hemp-derived THC products sold in shops and online. The FDA has warned consumers about some of these products, including delta-8 THC, because they are not evaluated or approved for safe use and may be labeled inaccurately. Texas rules on cannabis and hemp products have been changing, so this is general information, not legal advice.
What Marijuana Withdrawal Can Feel Like
People who use marijuana heavily and often may experience withdrawal when they stop. Symptoms can include:
- Irritability, anger or restlessness
- Anxiety or low mood
- Trouble sleeping and vivid or unsettling dreams
- Decreased appetite
- Cravings
- Headaches, sweating or stomach discomfort
Marijuana withdrawal is generally not considered medically dangerous in the way alcohol or benzodiazepine withdrawal can be. It can still be very uncomfortable, and those symptoms are a common reason people return to using. Symptoms often peak in the first week or so and then gradually ease. If you also drink heavily or use benzodiazepines, talk with a medical provider before stopping, because withdrawal from those substances can be life-threatening and needs medical supervision.
Some people who use cannabis heavily over a long period develop cannabis hyperemesis syndrome, which causes repeated, severe vomiting. If you are vomiting and cannot keep fluids down, seek medical care.
Marijuana and Mental Health
Many people use cannabis to manage anxiety, stress, sleep problems or low mood. In the short term it may seem to help. Over time, heavy use can make those symptoms worse and make it harder to learn other ways to cope. High-potency use has also been linked to a higher risk of psychosis in some people.
When marijuana use and a mental health condition occur together, dual diagnosis treatment addresses both at the same time, rather than treating one and leaving the other to chance.
What Treatment Involves
There is currently no FDA-approved medication specifically for cannabis use disorder, so behavioral therapies form the core of treatment. Research-supported approaches include cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational approaches that build commitment to change and structured reward-based methods. At Promises DFW, care may include:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy to identify triggers and change patterns of thinking that lead to use
- Dialectical behavior therapy skills for handling strong emotions without reaching for a substance
- Individual and group therapy
- Psychiatric evaluation and medication management for co-occurring anxiety, depression or other conditions
- Family therapy to rebuild trust and communication
- An aftercare plan for life after structured treatment
Depending on your needs, care might take place in residential treatment, in our in-person partial hospitalization program in Lewisville or in our virtual intensive outpatient program, which is available to adults anywhere in Texas. You can explore our broader approach on the drug addiction treatment page.
If You Are Worried About Someone Else
It can be hard to raise concerns about marijuana when a loved one insists it is harmless. Focus on specific changes you have noticed, such as missed work, withdrawal from family or mood swings, rather than arguing about the drug itself. Offer to help look into options without pushing for an immediate decision.
In a medical emergency, call 911. If you or someone you love is in crisis or having thoughts of suicide, call or text 988.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you really become addicted to marijuana?
Yes. Cannabis use disorder is a recognized condition. Some people develop dependence and find it very hard to stop, especially with frequent use of high-potency products.
Is marijuana withdrawal dangerous?
It is usually not medically dangerous on its own, but it can be uncomfortable enough to lead people back to use. Support makes it easier to get through.
Do I need residential treatment for marijuana addiction?
Not always. The right level of care depends on your assessment, including other substances, mental health needs and your home environment.
Can I get help for anxiety and marijuana use at the same time?
Yes. Treating co-occurring conditions together is often more effective than addressing them separately.
Take the First Step
If marijuana is getting in the way of the life you want, our admissions team can help you explore options and check your benefits at no cost. Visit our insurance options page, send us a message or call (469) 546-9303 any time.