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What is cannabis?
Cannabis is a plant used in products including dried flower, edibles, oils, and concentrates. THC is its main intoxicating component: it can change perception, mood, and thinking. Products vary greatly in concentration and effect. A familiar product name or legal availability does not tell you how it will affect a particular person.
How cannabis can affect someone
Cannabis can affect memory, attention, decision-making, coordination, and reaction time. High-THC products may have stronger intoxicating effects. Avoid driving or operating machinery while impaired. Risks and effects differ across people, ages, products, and patterns of use; the absence of an obvious crisis does not establish that use is harmless.
What the statistics tell us
People who use cannabis have cannabis use disorder, according to CDC’s page dated December 5, 2024. The estimate refers to cannabis users, not the entire population.
CDC cites research across multiple years for this estimate. It is not the result of a single 2024 survey and does not predict an individual’s outcome.
Starting cannabis use young and using more frequently are associated with greater risk. Follow the source link for the underlying studies and their dates.
What can addiction look like?
Cannabis use disorder can involve using more than intended, trying unsuccessfully to stop, cravings, giving up activities, and continuing despite problems at home, school, work, or in relationships.
An illustrative concern is repeatedly missing responsibilities because of use while feeling unable to change. Needing more for the same effect can also be a warning sign. A professional evaluates the pattern rather than diagnosing someone from a single behavior.
Why edibles need particular care
Edibles can have delayed or unpredictable effects, and their THC content can be difficult to judge. A person may consume more before the first amount takes effect, increasing poisoning risk. Store products securely away from children and pets. Seek urgent medical help for severe symptoms, difficulty breathing, a seizure, or inability to wake; tell clinicians what may have been consumed.
What getting help can involve
Behavioral therapies, including cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational enhancement therapy, and contingency management, can help people with cannabis use disorder. NIH reports no FDA-approved medications specifically for cannabis use disorder or medically assisted withdrawal. A clinician can assess symptoms, mental health needs, and treatment fit. Families can also seek counseling and support for communication, boundaries, and their own well-being.
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