How can I recognise cannabis dependence?

You can recognise cannabis dependence by a cluster of features. drugcom lists 11 criteria according to the DSM-5: if at least two of them apply within 12 months, a substance use disorder counts as present, and the more criteria apply, the more severe it is. Typical features are loss of control, unsuccessful attempts to stop, strong cravings, continued use despite consequences and withdrawal symptoms. A single feature is not enough. A specialist makes the diagnosis.

What dependence actually means

Dependence describes a pattern in which use takes up more and more space in life. According to drugcom, the amount and frequency of use say little on their own. Negative consequences and the overall picture carry more weight. The problem starts where control, interests and obligations gradually fall behind use.

drugcom explains that with ongoing use a psychological dependence can develop: those affected feel they can no longer cope without cannabis. Physical withdrawal symptoms are less pronounced with cannabis than with alcohol or heroin, but they can be very unpleasant. Not everyone who is dependent on cannabis experiences them.

The most important signs at a glance

The following points are among the features drugcom mentions. If several of them apply to you over a longer period, you should look more closely.

• Loss of control: you use more or for longer than planned.
• Failed breaks: you have repeatedly tried to use less or to stop, and it did not last.
• Thoughts that constantly revolve around cannabis: you have a strong craving or urge to use.
• Withdrawal symptoms: you are restless, irritable, sleep badly or have little appetite when you take a break.
• Continued use despite consequences: you notice problems at school, in training, at work or in relationships and keep using anyway.

Single points do not necessarily indicate dependence. According to drugcom, the decisive period is 12 months: if at least two of 11 criteria apply, the substance use disorder counts as present.

The 11 criteria at a glance

For the DSM-5, drugcom lists these criteria:

• You use more often, in larger amounts or for longer than planned.
• You persistently wish to stop or cut down, or have tried unsuccessfully.
• You spend a lot of time obtaining, using or recovering from the effects.
• You have a strong craving.
• You no longer meet important obligations at work, school or home because of use.
• You continue to use even though it causes social or interpersonal problems.
• You give up or restrict important professional, social or leisure activities in favour of use.
• You use repeatedly in situations that can be physically dangerous, for example in road traffic.
• You continue to use even though it has caused or worsened physical or psychological problems.
• You need higher doses for the same effect (tolerance).
• You have withdrawal symptoms or use to relieve them.

The list does not replace a diagnosis. If several points apply, that is a reason to talk to an addiction counselling service.

Using self-observation and a self-test as a first step

A good start is self-observation. For one week, note when you use, roughly how much, with whom and in what mood. The result often looks different from memory. The article Use diary when quitting shows how to structure such a log.

The drugcom.de cannabis check asks you questions about your use and gives feedback. It does not replace a medical or psychological diagnosis. It does, however, help you see your own habits clearly before you decide whether to seek support.

When you should seek support

If you cannot get anywhere on your own, a conversation with an addiction counselling service is worthwhile. Counselling is intended for people who want to check their use, even if they do not yet want to stop. The article First conversation in addiction counselling describes how the first session works.

You need immediate help if you experience confusion, severe panic or thoughts of harming yourself. In that case call the emergency number 112 or go to an emergency department. If you have thoughts of self-harm, you can also contact the crisis service in your region.

What happens in the first conversation

The first conversation is usually about your situation: how often you use, what matters to you and which consequences you notice. You do not need to have prepared anything. A list of your notes from self-observation does help you answer the questions better. You decide for yourself how much you tell, and you can ask at any time how the counselling works.

GP or addiction counselling: who helps with what?

Physical complaints, sleep disorders or strong mood swings should be checked by a doctor, because other causes can also be involved. The GP is the first point of contact for this. The article When should you talk to your GP about cannabis? lists specific warning signs.

For questions about use itself, an addiction counselling service is often the more suitable address. The staff talk with you about habits, triggers and goals, without making accusations. If necessary, they refer you on to doctors or specialised services.

Why young people are particularly at risk

According to cannabispraevention.de, young people are at much greater risk from cannabis use than adults: the younger someone is and the more often they use, the greater the health risk, and THC can disrupt the maturation processes in the brain. Early onset is associated with changes in the brain. According to drugcom, it has not been conclusively established whether the brain recovers after abstinence.

The risk is not the same for everyone. According to BIÖG, roughly one in eight people who use cannabis becomes dependent. Anyone who notices irregularities in themselves or in young people around them should therefore respond early, before a school-leaving qualification is at risk.

What you can concretely do now

1. Note the times, amount and occasion of your use for one week.
2. Do the cannabis check and read the results calmly.
3. Talk to someone you trust about your observations.
4. Book an appointment with your doctor if physical complaints are added.
5. Contact an addiction counselling service, even if you are still unsure whether you want to stop.

Dependence can be worked on with support. The first step is often honest looking, and that is easier when you are not alone. More information is in the guide under Help and counselling.