Cannabis use disorder is problematic marijuana use that continues despite real harm to motivation, mental health, relationships, or daily functioning. It is a recognized diagnosis in the DSM-5, and it is more common as today’s high-potency products have grown far stronger than the marijuana of past decades. At Heights Behavioral Health in Houston, cannabis use disorder is treated through outpatient care and our flagship Individualized Intensive Programming.
Marijuana carries a reputation for being harmless, which makes it easy to dismiss a growing problem. But many adults quietly find they cannot get through a day without it, that their motivation and mood have flattened, and that quitting is harder than they expected. That experience is real, and it has a name and a treatment.
When Cannabis Use Becomes a Disorder
As with any substance, the question is about control and consequences, not occasional use. Common signs include:
- Using more, or more often, than intended
- Wanting to cut down but not being able to
- Cravings, and building tolerance so you need more for the same effect
- Withdrawal such as irritability, anxiety, poor sleep, or low appetite when you stop
- Loss of motivation, flat mood, or declining performance at work or school
- Continuing despite its effect on your mental health or relationships
Cannabis and Mental Health
High-potency cannabis is increasingly linked to anxiety, depression, and, in vulnerable people, psychosis. For many adults the marijuana started as a way to manage anxiety, sleep, or trauma, and over time it made those problems worse. We see this pattern often, and it is central to how we treat it.
How We Treat It at Heights Behavioral Health
Care begins with a clinical assessment, then combines individual therapy with group work. Our Houston groups include Relapse Prevention, Addiction Education, and skills groups in CBT, DBT, and Motivational Interviewing, plus Mindfulness and Guided Meditation that help rebuild the natural regulation cannabis was replacing. Where anxiety, depression, or trauma sit underneath, our dual diagnosis care treats those at the same time.
Realizing you cannot stop as easily as you thought?
One confidential call with our Houston team can help you understand where you are and what would help.
Why Individualized Intensive Programming Fits
Because cannabis use is so often tied to anxiety, sleep, or trauma, treating it well means treating the whole person. Our flagship Individualized Intensive Programming builds the plan around what the marijuana was doing for you, at PHP or IOP intensity.
How Payment Works at Heights Behavioral Health
Heights Behavioral Health is a private-pay, out-of-network provider and is not in network with insurance plans. Some clients have out-of-network benefits that can offset part of the cost, and we are upfront about pricing before you commit. See our out-of-network guide.
When You Need More Than Outpatient Care
If there is acute psychiatric risk, such as symptoms of psychosis or a safety crisis, a higher level of care comes first, and we will help you find it. For non-clinical support, our sister practice Heights Mentoring may be a fit.
If this is an emergency or you are thinking about harming yourself, call 911, or call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. Heights Behavioral Health is an outpatient program and is not a 24-hour crisis service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is marijuana really addictive?
Cannabis use disorder is a recognized diagnosis, and a meaningful share of regular users develop it. Withdrawal symptoms like irritability, anxiety, and poor sleep are well documented, especially with today’s high-potency products.
I only use it to relax or sleep. Is that a problem?
Not necessarily. The issue is whether you can control it and whether it is costing you something. If you cannot cut back and it is affecting your mood, motivation, or relationships, it is worth a conversation.
Is there withdrawal from cannabis?
Yes. Many people experience irritability, anxiety, sleep trouble, and low appetite when they stop. It is uncomfortable rather than dangerous for most people, and support makes it easier.
Can it be treated outpatient?
Yes. Cannabis use disorder is well suited to outpatient treatment, especially when any underlying anxiety, depression, or trauma is treated alongside it.
Do you take insurance?
We are a private-pay, out-of-network provider and are not in network with insurance plans. Some clients use out-of-network benefits to offset part of the cost. We are upfront about pricing before you decide.
If Marijuana Has Become a Need, Not a Choice
Cannabis use disorder is real and treatable, especially when what is underneath it is treated too. One confidential call is the first step.
