Contrary to popular belief, people can become addicted to cannabis. Individuals who use cannabis can develop a cannabis use disorder. This can sometimes lead to physical dependence and addiction, especially with continued, frequent and heavy cannabis use.
Research has shown that THC in cannabis causes an increase in levels of dopamine (the pleasure chemical) in the brain. This motivates people to keep using it.
If people feel good when they use cannabis they will want to have that feeling again. For that reason, it is important for people to be able to create those positive feelings without the use of drugs.
Addiction can develop at any age but youth are especially vulnerable as their brains are still developing.
If you or someone you know is struggling with an addiction to cannabis, contact HealthLine 811 and ask for help. You should know that help is available and recovery is possible.
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