How problems develop
Not everyone who uses cannabis develops problems. Whether they do depends on the person, the substance and the setting. The risk increases when cannabis is used deliberately to switch off, to dampen feelings or to forget problems. More on this in the module How dependence develops.
Signs to look out for in yourself
Professionals describe cannabis use disorder using eleven criteria from the DSM-5, the classification system of American psychiatry. In everyday language:
Control
- You use more, or for longer, than you intended.
- You want to use less or stop, but you don’t manage it.
- Getting hold of cannabis, using it and recovering from it take up a lot of time.
- You have a strong craving for cannabis.
Everyday life and relationships
- Responsibilities at work, in education or training, or in the family are left undone.
- You keep using even though it leads to arguments or problems with others.
- Hobbies, friendships or sport take a back seat.
Risk
- You use in dangerous situations, for example before driving.
- You keep using even though you notice that it is harming you physically or mentally.
Body
- You need more to feel the same effect.
- Without cannabis you feel unwell (withdrawal, see below).
How professionals classify this
If two to three of these points apply within twelve months, professionals speak of a mild disorder, with four to five of a moderate one and with six or more of a severe one. Only doctors or psychotherapists can make a diagnosis. But the list helps you take an honest look.
Withdrawal
Anyone who has used a lot over a long period may notice withdrawal symptoms when stopping or cutting down: irritability, inner restlessness, nervousness, sleep problems, less appetite, low mood and physical complaints such as headaches or sweating. This is unpleasant, but it is a sign that the body is readjusting.
If you notice signs in others
What others may notice
School, training, workPerformance suddenly gets worse; frequent absences or lateness.
Circle of friendsIt changes; there are problems with friends.
FamilyThere are more problems at home.
Free timeInterests and hobbies are given up.
MoodMood swings, withdrawing from others, listlessness, indifference.
SecrecyLies or excuses to hide their use.
Signs like these can also have other causes. They are a reason to talk, not a diagnosis.
At a calm moment, talk about what you have noticed, without reproach. Ask questions and listen. Counselling services also advise family members and friends.
When to bring in help
- You are worriedTalk about itAt a calm moment, without blame. How to go about it is explained in the module Raising a concern.
- The problems are growingGet counsellingWhen money, work, school or relationships suffer, or attempts to stop fail. Counselling is also available for family members.
- Crisis or danger to lifeGet help immediatelyTelefonSeelsorge, the German crisis helpline (in German): 0800 111 0 111, around the clock and free of charge. In an emergency, 112.
What you can do
Take the self-test, write to our prevention officers anonymously or contact a counselling service.
Sources
- American Psychiatric Association (2013): Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition (DSM-5), criteria for cannabis use disorder and cannabis withdrawal
- drugcom.de, a service of the BIÖG: drug glossary, entry on cannabis
- The club’s health and youth protection concept, sections on substance use disorder and how it develops
- cannabispraevention.de (BIÖG): smoking weed, risks and the danger of addiction
- BIÖG (2025): cannabis information for parents
- The club’s health and youth protection concept, conversation guide
- DHS: addiction counselling
- TelefonSeelsorge Deutschland