Cannabis
Is Cannabis Use Disorder Really a Thing?
We used to just call people stoners, that was enough. But the medical world always likes things to be more specific, and so now we have the term ‘cannabis use disorder’. But is this really a thing? Or a combination of fear-mongering, and over-enthusiasm to make everything into a problem? Read on and form your own opinion.
How is cannabis use disorder defined?
Though cannabis use goes back for thousands of years without a use issue stated, somehow, when legalizations started happening in the US, it popped up as a disorder. It’s currently listed in the DSM V, which came out in 2013. The DSM (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) states the qualifications for psychiatric diagnoses. Since there aren’t medical diagnoses for these issues, this guide is meant to tell doctors how to diagnose psychiatric problems. In the previous edition which was used between 2000-2013 (the DSM IV), cannabis was associated with ‘dependence’ and ‘abuse.’
According to VeryWellMind, cannabis use disorder denotes “problematic marijuana use.” The site then goes on to list the symptoms related to this problematic use. These symptoms include:
“Continuing to use cannabis despite physical or psychological problems; continuing to use cannabis despite social or relationship problems; craving cannabis; difficulty controlling or cutting down cannabis use; giving up or reducing other activities in favor of cannabis use; problems at work, school, and home as a result of cannabis use; spending a lot of time on cannabis use; taking cannabis in high-risk situations; taking more cannabis than was intended; tolerance to cannabis; withdrawal when discontinuing cannabis.”
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However, given all this, it then goes on to stipulate: “Just because the name has changed and the term “cannabis use” has replaced “cannabis abuse” or “cannabis dependence” doesn’t mean that cannabis is not addictive. In fact, research shows conclusively that cannabis is addictive.” However, contrary to this article, research, in fact, does not show any ability for a physical addiction to cannabis, as well as no death toll; and the fact it was downgraded in this way, really says a lot about how innocuous it is.
Have I ever seen a real example of cannabis use disorder in life?
No, not really. And that means something. I can’t speak for every person reading this, but I can speak for my own experience. I’ve been smoking weed for well over 20 years. I admit I never got into it in high school, but when college came around I finally understood what all the hype was about. In reality, I had tried it in high school a couple times with some (now I realize) low-grade herb stolen out of the top drawer of my stepfather’s dresser. He had back issues and had likely procured the green for his pain.
I was one of those people who simply couldn’t get the inhale right. The non-cigarette smokers among us sometimes have problems with this in the beginning. But in the throes of university, I figured it out, and by the end of my junior year, I was a full on stoner. In fact, I went from 0 to 100 in no time at all.
I’ve had times in my life when I wouldn’t go places without a joint rolled or a one-hitter in my pocket. I used to be the one stinking up greyhound buses with my bag of weed stuffed in my backpack, and the scent emanating out. It used to be customary for me to sneak a smoke break in my car at lunch, or to go for a walk and toke up, pretty much whenever possible. My habit might have been irritating to those who didn’t understand my desire to constantly be high.
But the truth is, I never had to do it. If a situation arose whereby I couldn’t have weed, I might have complained, but it was more of a superficial thing. My body wasn’t upset by not getting it. I didn’t go into DTs, or get incredibly sick. I wasn’t irritable and in a generally bad mood; and if I was, it was related to me, not the weed. Because I was never addicted to it.
It also never messed anything up for me. I never prostituted myself to get it, robbed anyone or anything for the money, or missed out on something because of it. It didn’t cause me to fail out of school, lose friends, or become a social outcast. The most is did was make me lazy, and hurt my lungs (the latter of which was rectified by vaping over smoking).
Want the real reality check? Most of the time I’ve used like that, I’m unhappy in general, or stressed out in life, with no other way to deal with it. You know that whole idea of self-medicating? It isn’t that a person wants to be blown out of their mind, its that they’re trying to fix a problem, whether consciously or subconsciously. What my weed use indicates to me, is a discomfort in life and in myself, and that has nothing to do with a use disorder, but rather, a reason for use. As in, something not right = more weed use, feeling okay = less. I expect this is true for nearly every person who uses a substance regularly.
Most users I know go through different periods in life with their consumption. And many people seem to cut down on their own when the time is appropriate, or if they feel they’re going overboard. A real drug use disorder involves a lack of control to the point of a problem, but that indicates it needs to cause a real problem. I have yet to see even one person directly ruin their life because of weed. Which, in my opinion, makes for no actual use disorder attached.
Have YOU ever seen a real example of cannabis use disorder in life?
Are you a weed consumer? And if so, how would you characterize your own use? Do you feel compelled at any point to use it? Do you feel like your life is lacking something because of it? Do you feel out-of-control in your ability to use or not use it? Now think of the people around you. Do they seem out-of-control on weed? Like, unable to make decent decisions? Unable to stop from doing more? Unable to stop themselves from tanking out their lives? And all due only to weed?
And have you seen it fundamentally mess up another person’s life? Job lost, partner left, family leaves them behind? Have you seen anyone destitute on the side of the road because they just couldn’t stop smoking weed? Have you heard of a store being burglarized because of it, or a person performing sexual acts to get it? Maybe you have, I can’t say, but I’d certainly bet not. If you had seen it, I probably would have too.
Now, last, have you watched person after person, unable to stop using weed? Trying to quit repeatedly, and unable to consume less, or stop at all? Have you ever heard anyone talk about needing an AA style meeting, or a counselor to get them through the hard part? Has anyone ever disclosed to you their painful experience of trying to leave weed behind? Again, if you say ‘yes’, I won’t argue, but I expect if this were a thing to see, I’d have seen it in my over 20 years of being in the weed scene.
So is there really a cannabis use disorder?
In order for the medical community to prescribe you a medication for anything, they legally need a reason to do it. That reason comes as a diagnosis that creates a need for a treatment, which is then prescribed as a medication. The diagnosis acts as a justification to allow the patient to have a specific medication. A doctor can’t prescribe a medication that requires a prescription, without that justification.
If you go to a doctor with a urinary tract infection, that infection is tested for, and the diagnosis made based on the results of the tests. As in, it’s a verifiable problem, for which a medication exists to treat it. There’s 100% no subjectivity there. These are objective tests. This is the same for any medical issue, with a medical definition. Cancer is definable, the flu is definable, a broken bone is definable, a genetic mutation is definable.
Then we get to psychiatric disorders, and the process is the same, but with one not-so-minor stipulation which gets constantly steamrolled over. Psychiatric conditions have no medical diagnosis. There’s nothing to verify they exist, and no way to test for them, or differentiate them. Now, if you’re thinking ‘I’m sure that doctors can test and diagnose issues like schizophrenia’, the sad truth is they uniformly cannot, as there is no true verification method. All diagnoses therefore come from the opinion of each specific doctor. They are only subjective, with absolutely no objectivity involved.
Ever heard of two doctors having two different opinions? Happens all the time! And that can mean two wildly different diagnoses depending on the specific beliefs of the individual doctors. And two wildly different medications prescribed, that can have wildly different effects. Breast cancer is breast cancer no matter which doctor you go to. But depression might be depression to one, bi-polar to another, and a personality disorder to a third. All the doctors will pick up on what they see, which is usually centered on their ideas and beliefs. Now think of how opinionated most doctors are.
So does cannabis use disorder actually exist? Or is the medical community trying to make an unnecessary label so it can prescribe you more meds? It’s not my place to say for sure, but I can give my opinion. Remember that part where I’ve been both a weed user and in the weed community for over half my life? If I can go this long without seeing something that mirrors the conditions of this disorder, than far as I can tell, it’s pretty much the last thing you’ve got to worry about.
Conclusion
Want to worry in life? Worry about getting addicted to opioids, or benzodiazepines, or meth. Worry about your alcohol intake and how you’ll get home without driving drunk. Worry about the boxes of cigarettes you go through and how they affect your health and the health of those around you. And worry about why your governing bodies are consistently pushing you to use unhealthy options over healthier ones.
Worry about the pollution in the air and water, the chemicals in your food, and the long hours you’re made to work that take you away from your family for most of your waking hours. Worry about the stress that gets piled on you, and the terms used to describe the ways you deal with it. But if you like to de-stress yourself with weed, maybe don’t worry so much that you have a so-called disorder, since it doesn’t look to actually cause problems.
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It has become a popular gift with over 20% of the population putting it under the train. So we asked 3 wise man what to give (or consume) during the season.
The holiday season is a special time of year with a combination of Christmas, Hannakuh, and more are the modern hoildays descended from pagan holidays. Food, celebrations, gifts and a hint of something magical are all part of the holidays. With Christmas, the three wise men bring gifts to the baby Jesus being steered by a star. As we head into the last part of the season, why not think of the perfect gift to give or for yourself. We have three wise men give marijuana strain gift suggestions to share with our readers.
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Terran Cooper, one of the rising stars of the industry and a part of the firm Falcon Rappaport & Berman who works in the cannabis industry. New York based, he says while there are several great strains, he has two to share for the holiday season.
One of my favorite day time strains, Pineapple Express has skyrocketed in popularity following the 2008 film by the same name. This strain is one of the more energetic strains that I’ve come across, allowing for a nice balance between productivity and relaxation this holiday season. Its joyful and uplifting effects may pair nicely with last minute holiday tasks in addition to any festivities. Though infrequent consumers beware – its relatively high THC content means that a little can go a long way.
Andrew Laub, managing partner of Keneh Ventures and CEO of Cannabition, is a leader in the industry and shared his favorites. Golden Goat is my secret to finding joy in any moment, especially during the holiday season. Its tropical, citrusy flavor is bright and uplifting, just like its effects. I love how it gives me an energized, creative boost without feeling overwhelming, making it perfect for everything from decorating the house to hosting friends. It’s my reminder to savor the fun and chaos of the holidays.
Granddaddy Purple is like my personal escape when the holiday rush gets overwhelming. I love its rich, grape-like flavor and how it helps me unwind at the end of a busy day. Whether I’m binge-watching holiday movies or enjoying quiet time by the fireplace, this strain makes everything feel a little cozier and more magical.
Sour Diesel is my motivation when there’s too much to do and not enough time. Its energizing, citrusy aroma wakes me up, and its focus-boosting effects help me tackle long to-do lists with ease. I love using it to power through holiday prep, whether I’m wrapping gifts, planning meals, or brainstorming creative ways to make the season special.
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Online cannabis influencer Miguel a.k.a Miggy420 (@miggy420) believes consumption of cannabis is a personal experience with everyone being different. He sees the endocannabinoid system as unique as snowflakes in winter. Some smoke to wash away ills, others to wash away the ills of society. He shared his two favorites.
Vin Diesel Diesel is a sativa grown by Dewey’s Cultivars. Her beauty matches her taste with gassy hits reminiscent of early 2000 diesel strains I would buy in the traditional market. These growers come with a biochemical background and it shows with this plant, pure bliss – and this is coming from someone who prefers indicas.
If you’re looking for something post family events i.e you just realized the debt you incurred for the little ones or you’re just happy your conspiracy Uncle is gone, I recommend Gelato Cake by Agro Couture. This indica dominant hybrid will have your mind drifting away and able to focus on what it is you really wanted to do, hot box your bedroom and binge watch YouTube.
Enjoy these suggestions and may everyone have a great holiday season.
In another positive reason for cannabis legalization – teen use continues to drop.
One of the great arguments against marijuana legalization is it will lead to more youth partaking. This argument is brought out, despite teen alcohol use continuing to be a problem. Now, a new study shows teen marijuana is continuing to decline, coinciding with the increasing legalization of cannabis for adult use across the United States. This trend contradicts predictions made by opponents of legalization, who argued that easier access would lead to increased youth consumption.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Service’s National Survey on Drug Use and Health reported an 18% decrease in the percentage of 12- to 17-year-olds who had ever tried marijuana from 2014 to 2023. Additionally, current marijuana use among this age group fell by 19%. Similarly, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Youth Risk Behavioral Survey found a 26% reduction in the percentage of high schoolers identifying as current cannabis consumers between 2013 and 2023.
Researchers attribute this decline to several factors:
- Regulated markets: Licensed dispensaries require proof of age, making it more difficult for teenagers to obtain marijuana.
- Effective ID policies: Studies show high compliance rates among licensed cannabis retailers in checking customer IDs.
- Shifting perceptions: There has been a significant drop in youth perceptions that cannabis is easy to access, despite the widening adult-use marketplace.
The trend is not limited to the United States. A Canadian study found high school students reported more difficulty accessing marijuana since the country legalized it nationwide in 2019
These findings support the argument that regulated marijuana markets for adults, with appropriate safeguards, can effectively deter youth access and use. The data suggests that legalization policies can be implemented in a manner that provides regulated access for adults while simultaneously limiting youth access and misuse.
As more states consider legalizing marijuana, this evidence can inform policymakers and public health officials in developing effective strategies to protect youth while allowing adult use. The ongoing decline in teen marijuana use demonstrates that legalization, when properly implemented, does not necessarily lead to increased adolescent consumption and may even contribute to its reduction.
Roughly 25% of people are planning to give cannabis as a holiday gift….here are some practical suggestions to make it a success.
Last year was a watershed year for Santa with 1 in 4 planning to add cannabis into their gift giving, the trend is only going up in 2024. Since the plant has become mainstream (except for a few in DC), it is to be found under the tree, next to the menorah and during festive gatherings. Gen Z and Millennials are leading the trend with 78% (vs. 56% of Gen X and Boomers) in planning to include cannabis in their holiday plans. But you you want to do it right, here are the best tips if you are giving marijuana as a gift.
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While giving alcohol is a long tradition, giving cannabis is does have some variances. To start, so far most can’t grab it out of personal stock or fish it out of Christmas gifts already given for the year. While Costco, groceries stores and Total Wine are the booze top sellers, it can be also purchased in bodegas, gas stations and other locations. Cannabis still has to be purchased at specialized dispensaries.
First, plan ahead when you shop. The good news is most dispensaries keep hours similar to a grocery store – open by 9 am and closing around or after 10 pm. This makes dashing in for a last minute gift or squeezing it in during the day easy. Remember to bring cash, have a plan and chill out.
The good news isyou can’t seem to be “cheap” giving weed. Most edibles are in a small price range, whereas wine bought at a grocery stores can go for $6-$100. And the quality of the wine can vary greatly. Most edibles, including gummies, are within the same price point and potency while caring on quality. Wana Brands, one of the nation’s leading gummy makers, hits the mid spot on price. Also, unless you are doing a hefty gift basket, you are can give one or two items as a trail.
Never overestimate someone’s usage. Think about the recipient’s experience level and preferences when selecting cannabis gifts. For most, consider starting with low-dose or CBD-dominant products. Gummies, vapes, oil, or gift cards are all popular choices. Also, ask the budtender what the best sellers for mid level consumers.
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If you are in the less than 50% of the population where legal cannabis is available, consider hemp beverages. It can provide a quick, similar high but is legal. In Texas, they are huge sellers and can be found in some Total Wines, local convenience stores and other locations.
Lastly, have a hint of discretion, it might not be the best public secret Santa gift, but gummies can be a fun White Elephant!
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