Understanding Shyla’s Relationship with Marijuana: Cannabis Use Disorder

QUESTION

Shyla began using marijuana occasionally in college, yet even after she graduated, she found herself using marijuana in increasing amounts. Shyla found herself canceling dates or events with friends so she could stay in and smoke marijuana. Over time, she had to increase the amount of cannabis she smoked to achieve a relaxing effect. Recently, she was unable to purchase her normal supply and missed her normal window of use. During that time, she experienced high levels of distress, depression, and agitation. Based on the information provided, what describes Shyla’s relationship to marijuana? Group of answer choices She is experiencing cannabis use disorder She is experiencing cannabis intoxication She is experiencing cannabis withdrawal She is experiencing a cannabis-induced mental disorder

ANSWER

Understanding Shyla’s Relationship with Marijuana: Cannabis Use Disorder

Introduction

Shyla’s situation raises concerns about her relationship with marijuana and the potential development of a substance-related disorder. In this essay, we will explore the information provided and analyze how it aligns with the criteria for cannabis use disorder, a recognized mental health condition.

Shyla’s Escalating Use of Marijuana

Shyla’s history with marijuana indicates a progression from occasional use in college to a more frequent and problematic pattern of consumption. This escalation is a key factor in assessing her relationship with the substance.

Increased Frequency: Shyla’s use of marijuana has escalated beyond occasional college use to a point where she now cancels social events to stay in and smoke. This shift suggests a growing preoccupation with the substance.

Tolerance: Shyla’s need to increase the amount of marijuana to achieve the desired relaxing effect is indicative of tolerance, a phenomenon common in substance use disorders. Tolerance means that over time, more of the substance is needed to achieve the same effect, leading to increased consumption.

Withdrawal Symptoms: Shyla’s distress, depression, and agitation when she was unable to obtain marijuana are indicative of withdrawal symptoms, further supporting the suspicion of a substance use disorder.

Cannabis Use Disorder Criteria

To determine if Shyla is experiencing cannabis use disorder, we can refer to the criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5):

Impaired Control: Shyla’s inability to control her marijuana use, as seen in her escalating consumption and prioritizing it over social engagements, aligns with the criterion of impaired control.

Social Impairment: Her cancellations of dates and events with friends due to marijuana use indicate social impairment, meeting another criterion.

Tolerance and Withdrawal: The need to use increasing amounts of marijuana and experiencing distress, depression, and agitation during periods of non-use satisfy the criteria of tolerance and withdrawal.

Time Spent: Shyla’s increasing time spent using marijuana also aligns with the criterion of spending significant time obtaining, using, or recovering from the substance.

Neglected Activities: Canceling social events suggests that important social, occupational, or recreational activities are being neglected.

Persistent Use: Shyla’s continued marijuana use despite recognizing its negative consequences supports the criterion of persistent use.

Conclusion

Based on the information provided, Shyla’s relationship with marijuana meets the criteria for cannabis use disorder. Her escalating use, impaired control, social impairment, tolerance, withdrawal symptoms, increased time spent using, and neglect of important activities all point to a problematic pattern of cannabis consumption. It is crucial for individuals like Shyla to seek professional help and support to address and manage substance use disorders effectively, as they can have significant impacts on physical and mental health, relationships, and overall well-being.