Cannabis Use Disorder Treatment Declines Despite Rising Prevalence

Fewer Individuals Seek Help Amid Evolving Barriers

Despite increasing rates of cannabis use, access to and utilization of treatment for cannabis use disorder (CUD) has actually decreased in recent years, leaving many struggling individuals without vital support. A new study reveals evolving obstacles preventing people from getting the help they need.

Treatment Rates Are Falling

Researchers analyzed data from 2003, 2011, and 2019, revealing a concerning trend: the percentage of individuals receiving CUD treatment dropped from 19% in 2003 to just 13% in 2019. This decline occurs as cannabis potency has significantly increased; the average THC content in marijuana has more than doubled from 8% in 2014 to 15.3% in 2023, according to data from the National Institute on Drug Abuse (https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/drugfacts/marijuana).

The study, led by Brian D. Graves, assistant professor with Florida Atlantic University, utilized National Survey on Drug Use and Health datasets to examine predictors and barriers to treatment. Multivariate logistic regression models were employed to understand who receives treatment and who does not.

“Cannabis use disorder treatment is often overshadowed by treatments for other substance use disorders, despite its growing prevalence and impact,”

—Brian D. Graves, Assistant Professor

Who Seeks Treatment?

The analysis showed that individuals who received CUD treatment were more likely to be older, non-Hispanic white, and have a lower income. Prior involvement with the criminal justice system and receiving mental-health treatment in the previous year were also significant predictors of seeking help. Interestingly, in 2003, Hispanic individuals had lower odds of receiving treatment compared to their non-Hispanic white counterparts, but this disparity disappeared in later years.

Graves noted that an association between prior arrest and a 2-3 greater chance of receiving CUD treatment emerged in later years, but wasn’t present in 2003.

Barriers to Access Remain Significant

Many individuals reported reasons for not seeking treatment, including uncertainty about where to find help, lack of readiness to stop using cannabis, concerns about stigma, potential impacts on their job, and financial constraints. These barriers are not static; they are evolving over time, requiring a dynamic approach to address them.

“Our findings highlight an urgent and growing need for targeted outreach and improved education about available treatment options for cannabis use disorder,”

—Brian D. Graves, Assistant Professor

Graves emphasized the need for coordinated, systemic efforts to address these challenges and prioritize the unique needs of diverse communities affected by CUD. Closing the treatment gap requires tackling practical obstacles like affordability and access, as well as dismantling perceptual barriers like stigma and misinformation.