Cannabis Use Disorder

Cannabis use disorder is diagnosed when a problematic pattern of cannabis use results in significant impairment. Problematic and significant impairment is defined as meeting at least two of 11 Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.; DSM-5; American Psychiatric Association [APA], 2013) criteria within a 12-month period. The DSM-5 (APA, 2013) criteria include: 1) more use than intended; 2) desire or unsuccessful attempts to cut down; 3) significant time spent acquiring, using, or recovering from cannabis; 4) cravings; 5) failure to fulfill major obligations; 6) continued use despite related social and interpersonal problems; 7) reduction or elimination of important activities due to use; 8) use in physically hazardous situations; 9) continued use despite knowledge of experiencing physical or psychological consequences; 10) tolerance; and 11) withdrawal. The severity of the disorder may be classified as mild (i.e., 2-3 symptoms), moderate (i.e., 4-5 symptoms), or severe (i.e., 6 or more symptoms). Further specifiers include: in early or sustained remission, and the use occurs in a controlled environment.