Cannabis Dependence is the diagnosis used in the DSM-IV to describe the most severe addiction to Marijuana. It is defined by having at least three of the following symptoms in a one year period:

1. Tolerance: The need to use increasing amounts of Marijuana in order to get the same level of intoxication, or using the regular amount of Marijuana doesn’t cause as strong an effect.

2. Withdrawal: A specific set of symptoms that individuals experience when they stop taking Marijuana. Symptoms may include difficulty sleeping, lack of appetite, irritability, depression and difficulty concentrating.

3. Taking larger amounts of Marijuana and for longer periods than intended.

4. Persistent desire or repeated unsuccessful attempts to quit using Marijuana.

5. Spending excessive amounts of time trying to get Marijuana, being high on cocaine or recovering from cocaine use.

6. Important social, occupational, or recreational activities given up or reduced because of Marijuana use.

7. The individual continues to use Marijuana despite knowledge of negative consequences (i.e. physical illness, relationship problems, job difficulty etc.)