Can Cannabis Impact Your Appetite? Debunking the Addiction Myth
Cannabis addiction, known as cannabis use disorder, is a real condition affecting about 3 in 10 users, according to the CDC. Dr. Smita Das, an addiction psychiatrist, explains that stronger cannabis products with higher THC levels increase the risk of addiction, which is diagnosed using DSM-5 criteria. Symptoms include prioritizing cannabis use over daily responsibilities and experiencing withdrawal. Cases range from mild to severe, with effective treatments like motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, and peer support programs available. In Malta, where cannabis use is gaining traction, building supportive networks and focusing on overall health, including stress-relieving diets rich in omega-3s and Mediterranean cuisine, can help. Understanding the impacts of substances and making informed choices is essential for a balanced lifestyle.
Breaking the Myth: Can You Really Get Addicted to Cannabis?
Living a healthy lifestyle goes beyond choosing nutritious meals and staying active. It also involves making informed decisions about substances that can affect your physical and mental health. Cannabis, often discussed in the context of relaxation and recreation, has become a hot topic as more countries—including Malta—explore its legalization. But amidst the growing acceptance, a common misconception persists: you can’t get addicted to cannabis.
Dr. Smita Das, an addiction psychiatrist at Stanford University, is here to set the record straight. “Cannabis is definitely something that someone can develop an addiction to,” she explains. Known as cannabis use disorder, this condition is more prevalent than many realize, affecting about 3 in 10 people who use marijuana, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Signs of Cannabis Use Disorder: What to Watch For
Like other substance use disorders, cannabis addiction can interfere with your daily life, health, and relationships. For instance, have you or someone you know started prioritizing cannabis use over social engagements, work commitments, or self-care? These are key red flags.
Das notes that the risk of addiction increases with stronger cannabis products. “The more that somebody uses and the higher potency that somebody uses, the higher the risk.” Back in the 1960s, cannabis contained less than 5% THC (the ingredient responsible for the high). Today, cannabis products—such as oils and concentrates—can contain over 40% THC, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse.
Cannabis use disorder is diagnosed using criteria from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), the primary guide for mental health professionals. These criteria include needing more of the drug to achieve the same effect, experiencing withdrawal symptoms, and spending significant time acquiring or using cannabis. “When we break it down into these criteria that have to do with the impacts of their use, it’s a lot more relatable,” Das says.
Levels of Cannabis Addiction: Mild to Severe
Not all cannabis addictions are the same. If you meet just two of the DSM-5 criteria within a year, doctors consider it a mild form of the disorder. Meeting six or more criteria indicates a severe form. The National Survey on Drug Use and Health reveals that 7% of people aged 12 or older had cannabis use disorder in 2024, with most cases classified as mild. However, about 1 in 5 struggled with a severe form.
It’s important to remember that cannabis affects people differently. The same amount can have a major impact on one person’s life while leaving another relatively unaffected. Das emphasizes that it ultimately comes down to how cannabis use impacts someone’s day-to-day functioning.
Seeking Help: Effective Treatments and Support
If you or someone close to you is struggling with cannabis use disorder, there’s good news: effective treatments exist. One approach is motivational interviewing, a counseling style that helps individuals find the internal motivation to change their behavior. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), another popular method, helps people challenge negative thought patterns and adopt healthier habits.
Peer support plays a vital role in recovery, too. Twelve-step programs like Marijuana Anonymous offer a structured community for those seeking help. Even informal groups can be invaluable, as retired digital executive Dave Bushnell discovered when he started a Reddit forum for individuals recovering from cannabis addiction. With over 350,000 members, the group serves as a space for sharing experiences and providing support. “This is potheads taking care of potheads,” Bushnell explains.
For those living in Malta, where cannabis use has gained traction, building supportive networks can be especially important. Whether it’s joining a local recovery group or connecting with people online, finding a community that encourages a healthy lifestyle is crucial.
Cannabis and the Bigger Picture of Health
Many people seek cannabis for relaxation or stress relief, but it’s worth considering alternative ways to support mental and physical well-being. In Malta’s thriving food scene, for example, diet plays a significant role in managing stress and supporting recovery. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as fresh seafood, can help reduce inflammation and support brain health. Malta’s Mediterranean cuisine also offers an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables, which are linked to improved mood and cognitive function.
For those dining out in Malta, restaurants are increasingly offering dishes that cater to health-conscious customers. From plant-based menus to farm-to-table dining experiences, the culinary landscape provides plenty of opportunities to enjoy delicious meals while supporting your overall well-being.
As Dr. Das reminds us, “Just because something’s legal doesn’t mean that it’s safe.” Whether it’s cannabis, alcohol, or other substances, understanding their potential impact is a key part of living a balanced and healthy lifestyle. By making informed choices and seeking support when needed, you can prioritize your health and enjoy the best that life—and Malta’s food scene—has to offer.