How common is cannabis use disorder?
About 7% of people in the US aged 12 or older had cannabis use disorder (CUD) in the past year, based on 2022 federal survey data. That is 19.5 million people. Most people who use cannabis do not meet the criteria for CUD.
What the 2022 survey found
The 2022 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) reported 19.5 million people aged 12 or older with past-year CUD. The share was about 7% of that age group. The count includes adolescents and adults.
How often cannabis use becomes CUD
NIDA estimates about 3 in 10 people who use cannabis develop CUD at some point. Risk is higher for people who start before age 18. Risk is also higher with frequent use and with products that contain high THC.
marijuana addiction statistics
DSM-5 criteria and severity
DSM-5 defines CUD as a problematic pattern of cannabis use that causes impairment or distress. A diagnosis requires 2 or more symptoms in 12 months. Severity levels are mild (2 to 3 symptoms), moderate (4 to 5 symptoms), and severe (6 or more symptoms).
is cannabis psychologically addictive
Common symptoms include:
- Craving
- Tolerance
- Withdrawal
- Use in larger amounts or over a longer period than intended
- Unsuccessful efforts to cut down or stop
- Time spent getting, using, or recovering from cannabis
- Use despite problems at work, school, or home
Who has higher risk
Groups with higher risk include people who start cannabis before age 18, people who use cannabis on most days, and people with a family history of substance use disorder. Use of other substances and high-THC products also raise risk.
Treatment
CUD is treatable. Behavioral therapies include cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational enhancement therapy, and contingency management. The FDA has not approved a medication for CUD. SAMHSA runs a national helpline at 1-800-662-4357.