Table 1.

Diagnostic Criteria for Cannabis Use Disorder. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders - Fifth Edition (DSM-5)⁸.

Problematic pattern of use, leading to clinically significant impairment or distress, manifested by at least 2 of the following, occurring within a 12-month period:

• The substance is taken in larger amounts or over a longer period than was intended.

• Persistent desire or unsuccessful effort to cut down or control use.

• Great deal of time spent obtaining, using, or recovering from the effects of cannabis.

• Craving, or a strong desire or urge to use cannabis.

• Rucurrent use resulting in failure to fulfill major obligations at work, school, or home.

• Continued use despite having persistent or recurrent social or interpersonal problems caused by or exacerbated by the effects of use.

• Giving up or reducing important social, occupational, or recreational activities because of use.

• Recurrent use in situations that could be physically hazardous.

• Continued use despite knowledge of having a persistent or recurrent physical or psychological problem caused by or exacerbated by use.

• Need for markedly increased amounts of the substance to achieved intoxication or desired effect; or diminished effect with continued use of the same amount.

• Characteristic withdrawal syndrome for the substance (see below); or the substance is taken to relieve or avoid withdrawal symptoms.

Severity indicators:

2-3 criteria met = Mild

4-5 criteria met = Moderate

6 or more criteria = Severe

Cannabis withdrawal syndrome symptom checklist (3 or more):

1. irritability, anger, or agression

2. nervousness or anxiety

3. trouble sleeping

4. appetite or weight loss

5. resltessness

6. feeling depressed

7. significant discomfort from one of the following: stomach pain, tremors or shakes, sweating, hot flashes, chills, headaches