The reference guide used by clinicians to diagnose mental health disorders is known as the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). The most recent version of the manual is the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders – 5th Edition (DSM-5).

DSM-5 Diagnostic Criteria for Cannabis Use Disorder

Cannabis use disorder is defined by the DSM-5 as:

A problematic pattern of cannabis use leading to clinically significant impairment or distress, as manifested by at least two of the following, occurring within a 12-month period:

1.    Cannabis is often taken in larger amounts or over a longer period than was intended.

2.    There is a persistent desire or unsuccessful efforts to cut down or control cannabis use.

3.    A great deal of time is spent in activities necessary to obtain cannabis, use cannabis, or recover from its effects.

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

5.    Recurrent cannabis use resulting in a failure to fulfil major role obligations at work, school, or home.

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

7.    Important social, occupational, or recreational activities are given up or reduced because of cannabis use.

8.    Recurrent cannabis use in situations in which it is physically hazardous.

9.    Cannabis use is continued despite knowledge of having a persistent or recurrent physical or psychological problem that is likely to have been caused or exacerbated by cannabis.

10.  Tolerance, as defined by either of the following:

a.    A need for markedly increased amounts of cannabis to achieve intoxication or desired effect.

b.    A markedly diminished effect with continued use of the same amount of cannabis.

11.  Withdrawal, as manifested by either of the following:

a.    The characteristic withdrawal syndrome for cannabis (refer to DSM-5 for further details).

b.    Cannabis (or a closely related substance) is taken to relieve or avoid withdrawal symptoms.

A mild cannabis use disorder is defined as the presence of 2-3 of the above symptoms.

A moderate cannabis use disorder is defined as the presence of 4-5 of the above symptoms.

A severe cannabis use disorder is defined as the presence of 6 or more of the above symptoms.