Cannabis dependence can involve difficulty controlling use, increasing priority given to it and continued use despite problems. Withdrawal may include irritability, sleep difficulty or other symptoms, which can complicate efforts to stop. A person may also rely on cannabis for perceived relief from distress, making change more complex than simply receiving risk information.
Cannabis contains compounds with different effects, particularly THC and CBD. Its relationship with psychosis depends on factors such as exposure, potency, individual susceptibility and the outcome studied. Cannabis is not the explanation for every psychotic illness, but it is a clinically important factor to assess respectfully and accurately rather than through blame or reassurance unsupported by evidence.
Support begins with a non-judgmental assessment of use, goals and barriers. Psychological and practical approaches can help identify triggers and alternatives. Mental health and substance services should coordinate rather than require one problem to be resolved before addressing the other. Plans consider sleep and emerging symptoms during change. The person’s preferences guide realistic steps, while urgent deterioration needs clinical assessment. Ongoing contact is valuable because changing a familiar coping pattern can take time and may involve setbacks without making support pointless.
Withdrawal-related sleep problems can make early change difficult, particularly if cannabis was used as a sleep aid. Planning for this period can support persistence and help distinguish withdrawal from emerging psychiatric symptoms. Clinical review is appropriate when changes are marked or concerning. Ongoing support should remain available through setbacks and should address the function that use served in the person’s life.
Further reading: National Institute of Mental Health; World Health Organization; National Institute on Drug Abuse.
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