Marijuana
Learn about marijuana use disorder, its symptoms, effects on mental health, and evidence-based treatment options to help you or your loved one find the right support.
Marijuana (cannabis) is one of the most commonly used substances in the United States, with approximately 48.2 million people reporting use in 2019 [1]. While many people use marijuana without developing problematic use patterns, others may develop marijuana use disorder, which can significantly impact mental health and daily functioning.
Marijuana contains THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the primary psychoactive compound responsible for the "high" sensation, along with CBD (cannabidiol) and other cannabinoids that affect brain function [2]. When consumed, these compounds interact with the body's endocannabinoid system, affecting mood, memory, perception, and other cognitive functions.
How Marijuana Affects the Brain and Body
When someone uses marijuana, THC activates specific receptors in the brain, particularly in areas responsible for memory and learning, coordination and movement, pleasure and reward systems, and judgment and decision-making.
The immediate effects typically last a few hours but can vary considerably depending on the potency, method of consumption, and individual factors [3]. Regular, heavy use can lead to more persistent changes in brain function, especially when use begins during adolescence when the brain is still developing.
Signs and Symptoms of Problematic Marijuana Use
Not everyone who uses marijuana will develop a problem, but approximately 3 in 10 people who use marijuana may develop some degree of marijuana use disorder [1]. Recognizing the signs of problematic use is important for seeking appropriate help.
Common Signs of Marijuana Use Disorder
Behavioral Changes include using more marijuana than intended or for longer periods, unsuccessful attempts to cut down or control use, spending significant time obtaining, using, or recovering from marijuana, and continuing use despite relationship or social problems caused by marijuana.
Physical and Psychological Signs include developing tolerance (needing more to achieve the same effect), experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not using, cravings or strong desires to use marijuana, and giving up important activities because of marijuana use [4].
How Marijuana Use May Affect Different People
Marijuana affects individuals differently based on factors like genetics, mental health history, frequency of use, age of first use, and potency of the marijuana consumed. Some people may experience primarily positive or neutral effects, while others might experience:
Anxiety, paranoia, or panic reactions
Impaired memory and concentration
Decreased motivation or energy
Altered perception and sensory experiences
Changes in mood, including depression [5]
For those with pre-existing mental health conditions like anxiety disorders, depression, or psychotic disorders, marijuana use can sometimes exacerbate symptoms or complicate treatment [2].
Potential Causes and Risk Factors
Marijuana use disorder, like other substance use disorders, doesn't have a single cause but develops from a complex interplay of factors.
Biological Factors
Research suggests that genetics play a significant role in vulnerability to developing marijuana use disorder. Family history of substance use disorders increases risk, as certain genetic variations affect how individuals respond to marijuana [3].
Environmental Influences
Several environmental factors can increase the likelihood of developing problematic marijuana use:
Early exposure to marijuana, particularly during adolescence
Peer influence and social environments where use is common
High stress levels and limited coping skills
Trauma or adverse childhood experiences
Easy access to high-potency marijuana products [4]
Co-occurring Mental Health Conditions
There's a significant relationship between marijuana use and mental health conditions. Sometimes people use marijuana to self-medicate symptoms of anxiety, depression, PTSD, or other conditions. Conversely, regular marijuana use can sometimes trigger or worsen certain mental health symptoms [5].
Impact on Daily Life and Relationships
Problematic marijuana use can affect various aspects of a person's life, though the specific impacts vary widely between individuals.
Effects on Daily Functioning
For some regular users, marijuana can affect:
Cognitive abilities, including memory, attention, and problem-solving
Motivation and goal-directed behavior
Academic or work performance
Physical health, including respiratory issues with smoking [6]
Many people report that heavy, regular use affects their energy levels, making it harder to engage fully in daily activities or pursue long-term goals.
Relationship Challenges
When marijuana use becomes problematic, it can strain relationships in several ways:
Conflicts over use patterns or associated behaviors
Emotional distance or withdrawal
Financial stress related to supporting marijuana use
Different priorities between the person using and their loved ones
Family members often report feeling helpless or frustrated when trying to support someone with problematic marijuana use, highlighting the importance of support resources for both the individual and their loved ones [6].
Evidence-Based Treatment Options
If you or someone you love is struggling with marijuana use, effective treatments are available. Treatment is most successful when tailored to individual needs and circumstances.
Professional Treatment Approaches
Professional treatment for marijuana use disorder may include several evidence-based approaches. Behavioral therapies like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational enhancement therapy, and contingency management have shown effectiveness in treating marijuana use disorder [1]. Medication-assisted approaches may also be helpful; while there are currently no FDA-approved medications specifically for marijuana use disorder, certain medications may help manage withdrawal symptoms or address co-occurring mental health conditions [2].
For those with co-occurring mental health conditions, integrated treatment addressing both the substance use and mental health needs simultaneously tends to be most effective [7].
Treatment Settings and Options
Treatment can take place in various settings based on individual needs:
Recovery support groups
The appropriate level of care depends on factors like severity of use, presence of co-occurring conditions, previous treatment history, and available support systems [7].
Self-Care Strategies and Coping Skills
Whether seeking professional help or working on changing marijuana use independently, developing healthy coping strategies is essential.
Practical Approaches to Reducing or Stopping Use
Effective approaches include setting clear, specific goals for changing use patterns and identifying and avoiding triggers and high-risk situations. Finding alternative activities that provide enjoyment and fulfillment is important, as is practicing stress management techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or exercise. Remember to track progress and celebrate small successes along the way [5].
Building a Supportive Lifestyle
Sustainable recovery involves creating a lifestyle that supports wellness:
Establish regular sleep patterns and healthy eating habits
Engage in regular physical activity
Build or reconnect with a supportive social network
Develop skills for managing difficult emotions without substances
Consider participation in support groups or recovery communities [5]
Supporting a Loved One with Marijuana Concerns
If someone you care about is struggling with marijuana use, your support can make a significant difference in their recovery journey.
How to Talk About Concerns
Approaching conversations about marijuana use with compassion and respect increases the likelihood of a positive outcome:
Choose a calm moment when neither of you is under the influence of substances
Express specific concerns without judgment or blame
Listen openly to their perspective and experiences
Offer support for seeking help without ultimatums or threats
Be patient, as change often happens gradually [6]
Setting Healthy Boundaries
Supporting someone doesn't mean enabling problematic behavior:
Be clear about what behaviors you can and cannot accept
Communicate boundaries calmly and consistently
Follow through on stated consequences
Take care of your own physical and emotional well-being
Consider seeking support through family therapy or support groups like Al-Anon or Families Anonymous [6]
Finding Professional Help
If you're ready to seek help for yourself or support someone else in finding treatment, several resources can guide you to appropriate care.
When to Seek Professional Support
Consider seeking professional help if marijuana use is causing problems in relationships, work, or daily functioning. Additionally, professional support is recommended if use continues despite negative consequences, if marijuana is being used to cope with emotional distress or mental health symptoms, or if withdrawal symptoms occur when attempting to stop or cut down [7].
Finding the Right Treatment Provider
Not all treatment approaches work equally well for everyone. Our treatment directory can help you find providers that match your specific needs, including:
Specialized experience with marijuana use disorder
Treatment for co-occurring mental health conditions
Appropriate level of care
Insurance coverage and payment options
Location and accessibility
Ready to find help? Browse our comprehensive treatment directory to find marijuana treatment providers that match your unique needs and circumstances. Our directory allows you to search by location, treatment approach, level of care, insurance acceptance, and more to find personalized care for your recovery journey.
Related Resources
For additional information and support, explore these related condition pages:
References
[1] National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2021). Marijuana Research Report. https://nida.nih.gov/publications/research-reports/marijuana/what-marijuana
[2] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). Health Effects of Marijuana. https://www.cdc.gov/marijuana/health-effects/index.html
[3] Volkow, N. D., Baler, R. D., Compton, W. M., & Weiss, S. R. (2014). Adverse health effects of marijuana use. New England Journal of Medicine, 370(23), 2219-2227. https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/nejmra1402309
[4] American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.). https://psychiatry.org/psychiatrists/practice/dsm
[5] SAMHSA. (2022). Know the Risks of Marijuana. https://www.samhsa.gov/marijuana
[6] Partnership to End Addiction. (2023). How to Help Someone Who's Using Marijuana or Other Drugs. https://drugfree.org/article/how-to-help-someone-whos-using/
[7] SAMHSA. (2023). National Helpline and Treatment Locator. https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help