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"Let's Talk About Cannabis Addiction - Myth or Science?" - SAC Health Answers (Ep. 36)

  • Aug 19
  • 2 min read

Can You Get Addicted to Cannabis?

There is a lot of confusing information out there about cannabis (marijuana). A big question people ask is: Can you actually get addicted to it?


In a recent episode of SAC Health Answers, Dr. Jason Lohr, CEO of SAC Health, sat down with Dr. Ara Anspikian, assistant chief medical officer for Behavioral Health, to tackle this exact question.


Fact or Fiction? Some people think cannabis is not addictive. Doctors say that is a myth. Science shows that people can get addicted. It is a medical condition called "Cannabis Use Disorder," and the CDC estimates that roughly 3 in 10 current cannabis users meet the criteria for Cannabis Use Disorder. Today's products (like vapes and edibles) are much stronger than they used to be, which makes them even more risky.


3 Warning Signs of Addiction: How can you tell if someone has a problem? Look out for these three big signs:

  1. Needing More: You find yourself needing more cannabis, or significantly stronger products, just to get the same effect you used to experience.

  2. Withdrawals: When you try to stop using it, you feel grumpy, worried, or sick.

  3. Impact on Life: Using cannabis (marijuana) is causing fights with family, hurting grades at school, or making you give up activities you enjoy.


Need Help?

🛑 If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use, confidential support is available 24/7. SAMHSA National Helpline: Call 1-800-662-4357 or text your ZIP code to 435748. Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988


Do Not Feel Ashamed: If you or someone you know has these signs, do not feel ashamed. Being addicted to cannabis is a medical condition, not a sign of weakness.

The best thing to do is to ask for help! If you need support, talk to your doctor.


Behavioral Health at SAC Health!

At SAC Health, our behavioral health teams provide compassionate, whole-person care for addiction. If you or someone you love is struggling. Call 909-382-7100 to learn about our local recovery programs.



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SAC Health Answers is meant to provide health education and information, and not a replacement for regular one-on-one checkups or appointments with your health care provider, nor does it establish a doctor-patient relationship.

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