Many teens and adults still believe marijuana is not addictive, especially as laws and social attitudes have become more permissive. In reality, cannabis can cause both physical dependence and a diagnosable substance use disorder.(Source)

Current research suggests that about 3 in 10 people who use marijuana will develop cannabis use disorder (CUD) at some point, and the risk is higher for those who start using in adolescence or who use daily.(Source) CUD is a medical condition in which a person continues using cannabis even when it harms their health, relationships, or responsibilities.

Young people are especially vulnerable. The brain continues developing into the mid‑20s, particularly in areas that control judgment, impulse control, and decision‑making.(Source) Regular marijuana use during this time can change how the brain’s reward and stress systems function, making it easier to develop dependence and harder to cut back.

Cannabis use disorder can:

• Make it difficult to stop or reduce use, even when you want to
• Lead to cravings and withdrawal symptoms when you try to quit
• Interfere with school, work, or family life
• Increase the risk of using other substances such as alcohol, nicotine, or other drugs

Some people also use marijuana products obtained from unregulated sources, which may be contaminated with other substances or contain much higher THC levels than expected.(Source) This can increase the risk of both acute side effects and addiction.

If marijuana use is starting to feel less like a choice and more like something you have to do to feel “normal,” that is a warning sign of dependence and possible cannabis use disorder.