Structured, non-judgmental care for cannabis dependence. Your psychiatrist uses DSM-5 guided assessment and evidence-based psychosocial therapies to help you regain clarity and control.
22M+Cannabis dependence cases globallyUNODC World Drug Report
9%Of regular users develop dependenceNIDA Research
76%Increase in CUD cases over the past decadeUNODC, 2023
Understanding Cannabis Use Disorder
Cannabis Use Disorder (CUD) is defined by the DSM-5 as a problematic pattern of cannabis use leading to clinically significant impairment or distress. While cannabis is often perceived as harmless, regular and heavy use can lead to dependence, withdrawal symptoms, and significant functional impairment, particularly when use begins during adolescence.
The APA DSM-5 classifies Cannabis Use Disorder on a severity spectrum (mild, moderate, severe) based on the number of diagnostic criteria met. NICE NG64 emphasizes psychosocial interventions as the primary treatment approach, noting that no pharmacotherapy has been approved for CUD.
APA DSM-5 & NICE NG64 — Drug misuse in over 16s: psychosocial interventions
Cannabis withdrawal is now a recognized clinical syndrome in DSM-5, presenting with irritability, sleep difficulties, decreased appetite, restlessness, and various forms of physical discomfort beginning within a week of cessation.
Signs and Symptoms
Using cannabis in larger amounts or over longer periods than intended
Persistent desire or unsuccessful efforts to cut down
Spending excessive time obtaining, using, or recovering
Craving or strong desire to use cannabis
Recurrent use resulting in failure to fulfill obligations
Continued use despite persistent interpersonal problems
Tolerance: needing increased amounts for the same effect
Giving up important social, occupational, or recreational activities
Our Treatment Approach
NICE NG64 recommends psychosocial interventions as the cornerstone of CUD treatment. No medications are currently approved specifically for cannabis dependence, making structured therapy the primary evidence-based approach.
NICE NG64 & APA Practice Guidelines
1
Comprehensive Assessment
Detailed evaluation of cannabis use patterns, DSM-5 criteria screening, assessment of psychiatric comorbidities (anxiety, depression, ADHD), and functional impact analysis.
2
Motivational Enhancement Therapy
A structured, person-centred approach that helps build intrinsic motivation to change, resolve ambivalence about quitting, and set personally meaningful recovery goals.
3
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
Identifying and modifying thought patterns and behaviours that maintain cannabis use, developing coping strategies for triggers, and building skills for a substance-free lifestyle.
4
Contingency Management
A structured reward-based system that reinforces abstinence and treatment adherence through positive incentives, shown to improve outcomes in substance use disorders.
5
Psychoeducation & Relapse Prevention
Education about the effects of cannabis on brain development and mental health, combined with long-term strategies to identify early warning signs and prevent relapse.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Research from NIDA shows that approximately 9% of regular cannabis users develop dependence, rising to about 17% among those who begin use in adolescence. The DSM-5 recognizes Cannabis Use Disorder as a diagnosable condition with well-defined withdrawal symptoms.
Currently, no medications are approved specifically for treating CUD. However, medications may be prescribed to manage withdrawal symptoms (such as sleep aids or anti-anxiety medications) and to treat co-occurring conditions like depression or ADHD. Psychosocial therapies remain the primary evidence-based treatment.
Cannabis withdrawal is recognized in DSM-5 and typically includes irritability, anxiety, sleep disturbances, decreased appetite, restlessness, and general discomfort. Symptoms usually begin within 1-2 days of cessation, peak during the first week, and can last up to two weeks.
Heavy and early-onset cannabis use is associated with an increased risk of psychotic disorders, particularly in individuals with a genetic predisposition. High-potency cannabis products carry a greater risk. This relationship is well-documented in psychiatric research and recognized by both the WHO and APA.
Treatment duration varies based on severity and individual circumstances. A typical structured programme involves 12-16 sessions of CBT or Motivational Enhancement Therapy over 3-4 months, followed by ongoing support and relapse prevention planning.
Take the First Step Toward Clarity
Cannabis dependence is treatable. Evidence-based therapy can help you break the cycle and rediscover focus, motivation, and well-being.