We Treat Cannabis Addiction 

Cannabis withdrawal is not usually life-threatening, but it can be uncomfortable and disruptive. People may experience irritability, mood swings, insomnia or vivid dreams, low appetite with weight loss, anxiety, restlessness, difficulty concentrating, and strong cravings. Symptoms often begin within 24 hours after the last use, tend to peak during the first week, and can last up to two weeks.

Cannabis addiction can present differently across individuals, but common signs to look for include: 

In myself 

• Needing cannabis to relax, sleep, or feel normal
• Using more than intended or for longer than planned 
• Struggling to cut back despite wanting to stop 
• Spending a lot of time getting, using, or recovering from cannabis 
• Loss of interest in hobbies or responsibilities 

In my loved ones 

• Appearing frequently intoxicated 
• Changes in mood, memory, or motivation 
• Dropping grades or work performance 
• Withdrawing from family or friends 
• Defensiveness about cannabis use 

In my patients 

• Persistent cough or respiratory problems from smoking 
• Cognitive impairments (memory, attention, decision-making) 
• Symptoms of anxiety, depression, or psychosis 
• Difficulty maintaining employment or school attendance 

In my employees 

• Declining productivity and engagement 
• Frequent lateness or absenteeism 
• Accidents or safety risks in the workplace 

While cannabis is often perceived as low-risk, addiction can carry significant consequences: 

Physical health 

• Respiratory issues from smoking (chronic cough, bronchitis) 
• Impaired motor coordination, increasing accident risk 
• Negative impact on adolescent brain development 
• Reduced fertility and hormonal effects in heavy users 

Mental health 

• Increased risk of anxiety and depression 
• Exacerbation of pre-existing mental health conditions 
• Higher likelihood of psychosis in vulnerable populations 
• Reduced motivation and memory problems 

Family and relationships 

• Increased conflict due to secrecy or denial 
• Neglect of responsibilities at home 
• Financial strain from the ongoing purchase of cannabis 

Public health context 

• Widespread normalization leading to higher youth use 
• Driving under the influence, leading to accidents 
• Strain on healthcare systems for mental health and respiratory issues 

Since cannabis was legalized in Canada in 2018, attitudes and behaviours toward the drug have shifted. While legalization has reduced stigma and created safer regulation compared to the illicit market, it has also introduced new challenges for addressing cannabis addiction: 

• Normalization: Legalization has made cannabis use seem socially acceptable, sometimes minimizing the risks of heavy or daily use. 
• Accessibility: Widespread retail availability increases the likelihood of frequent consumption. 
• Youth perception: Legalization may lower the perceived risks among teenagers and young adults, who are more vulnerable to long-term impacts. 
• Medical vs. recreational confusion: Some people self-medicate with cannabis for sleep, anxiety, or pain without medical guidance, leading to dependency. 
• Delayed help-seeking: Because cannabis is legal, many people assume their use is harmless and wait longer to seek treatment. 
• Public health monitoring: Cannabis legalization has created new challenges in preventing impaired driving, monitoring public health impacts, and educating the population.