Cannabis: Signs, Effects, & Treatment Options
Cannabis (also called marijuana) can affect attention, mood, sleep, and motivation. Some people use it to relax or help with pain or sleep, but heavy or frequent use can cause problems in daily life.
Our website is for information only. We help you understand your options and prepare for conversations with licensed providers, but we do not diagnose, treat, or guarantee outcomes.
What Is Cannabis?
Cannabis comes from the hemp/marijuana plant. It can be smoked/vaped, eaten as edibles, or used as oils or tinctures. THC is the ingredient that causes a “high.” CBD is non-intoxicating but may still affect how you feel. Potency varies widely, especially with concentrates and some vapes.
Signs Cannabis Use May Be a Problem
Physical Signs
Red or dry eyes, cough or throat irritation, poor sleep, changes in appetite or weight, or nausea. Some people with heavy, long-term use develop repeated vomiting
Behavioral Signs
Using more or longer than planned, strong cravings, needing more to get the same effect, skipping school or work, pulling away from friends or activities, or driving after use
Mental/Emotional Signs
Memory and attention problems, low motivation, anxiety or panic after use, mood swings, or irritability
Short- and Long-Term Risks
In the short term, cannabis can:
- Impair judgment and coordination
- Trigger anxiety or panic
- Speed up heart rate
- Affect learning and memory
- Increase accident risk, especially while driving
Over time, heavy or daily use can contribute to:
- Ongoing attention or memory issues
- Sleep problems and low motivation
- Mood changes
- In some people, repeated vomiting episodes (cannabinoid hyperemesis)
Risks rise with daily or heavy use, high-THC products, starting young, or mixing with alcohol or other drugs.
Mixing & Safety
Using cannabis with alcohol increases impairment and accident risk. Mixing with sedating medications can cause excessive drowsiness. If you feel chest pain, severe anxiety, or you can’t stay awake, seek medical care. For any immediate danger, call your local emergency number.
Cannabis Withdrawal Basics
Stopping after frequent or heavy use can cause:
- Irritability and restlessness
- Trouble sleeping or vivid dreams
- Low mood and decreased appetite
- Headaches or stomach discomfort
Symptoms usually start within a few days and ease over 1–2 weeks for many people. A clinician can suggest a safe plan and supports.
Treatment Options
Treatment and support is matched to how much cannabis is affecting your life, your safety, and what you have in place at home. Some people start with lighter support; others need more structure at first and then step down.
Detox (If Needed)
Most people don’t need medical detox for cannabis alone, but some benefit from a short stabilization stay, especially if withdrawal is severe, other substances are involved, or there are safety concerns.
Inpatient/Residential
Inpatient or residential care is used less often for cannabis alone, but it may be recommended if home is unsafe, other substances are involved, or there are serious mental health or safety concerns. You stay at the facility full time for a short period while you stabilize and plan next steps.
Day Program (PHP)
A Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) is typically a full day of treatment. You’re on-site most of the day for groups, skills, and check-ins, then go home at night.
Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
IOP adds more structure than standard outpatient: several sessions per week, usually in blocks of a few hours. It’s a good fit if weekly therapy alone is not enough but you still need to keep some daytime responsibilities.
Outpatient
Outpatient care focuses on weekly or biweekly therapy sessions. You’ll work on triggers, routines, sleep, and mood, and may see a prescriber for mental health medications when appropriate.
Telehealth
With telehealth, you meet by secure video or phone instead of going into a clinic. It can be helpful if you live far away, don’t drive, or need something that fits around work or school.
Therapies & Skills That Help
Helpful therapy options may include:
- CBT to understand triggers and build new habits
- DBT skills for mindfulness, distress tolerance, and emotion regulation
- Motivational interviewing to set goals at your pace
- Sleep skills (CBT-I basics), exercise, and routine planning
- Family sessions (with permission) to improve communication and boundaries
Some programs add holistic supports like mindfulness, gentle movement, or creative activities. These support, but do not replace, medical care.
Co-Occurring Mental Health
Cannabis use can overlap with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or trauma symptoms. Ask for dual diagnosis options so substance use and mental health are treated together. This can improve safety and long-term stability. Never start, stop, or change psychiatric medication without your prescriber’s guidance.
How to Choose Cannabis Treatment
- Check for state license and accreditation
- Ask about medical and psychiatric staff availability
- Review safety policies and detox support
- Confirm aftercare planning and insurance coverage
Choosing the right program means finding a safe, accredited place that meets your needs and supports long-term recovery. Take time to ask questions and compare options before deciding.
Insurance & Costs
Coverage depends on your plan, network, and medical needs. Programs can check benefits, but your insurer makes the final decision. Ask about self-pay or payment plans if needed.
FAQs
Can cannabis be addictive?
Yes. Some people develop cannabis use disorder. This involves trouble cutting down, cravings, and continued use despite problems. A clinician can assess and recommend support.
Do I need detox for cannabis?
Medical detox is usually not needed, but withdrawal can be uncomfortable. A clinician can suggest safe supports and step-by-step changes.
Will I have to quit completely?
Goals are personal. Some people aim to stop; others try reducing use first. Talk with your clinician about what is safest and most realistic for you.
Is vaping safer than smoking?
Vaping may reduce smoke exposure but can still carry risks, especially with high-potency products or unknown sources. Use caution and seek advice from a clinician.
Can cannabis help anxiety or sleep?
Some people feel short-term relief, but heavy use can worsen anxiety or sleep over time. Ask a treatment professional about safer, longer-term options.
Helpful Resources
In Crisis? Get Immediate Help
If you are in danger or thinking of self-harm, call 911 (or your local emergency number). In the US, dial or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.