More people are addicted to marijuana, but fewer of them are seeking help, experts say

OG article by Laura Ungar

November 28, 2025

Despite rising marijuana use in legalized states like Florida, where nearly 925,000 people are enrolled in the medical program, addiction rates are climbing while treatment seekers dwindle. Megan Feller, a 24-year-old from Minnesota, exemplifies this trend; as a teen, she vaped potent cannabis daily, unable to eat, sleep, or function without it, yet viewed it as harmless due to social acceptance. Experts like Dr. Smita Das from Stanford attribute this to myths of marijuana's non-addictiveness, despite cannabis use disorder affecting about 3 in 10 users, causing cravings and life disruptions.

Potency has surged; 1960s weed hovered below 5% THC, but today's dispensary products hit 40% or more, per the National Institute on Drug Abuse. This fuels issues like learning impairments, chronic vomiting, lung damage, and psychosis risks in vulnerable individuals. Daily use now tops drinking, with 18 million Americans reporting near-daily consumption in 2022, up from under 1 million decades ago. Legalization in 24 recreational and 40 medical states has normalized access, spiking emergency room visits for acute intoxication—Michigan studies show immediate post-legalization surges, especially among middle-aged adults.

Edibles exacerbate risks, delaying onset and leading to overconsumption and toxicity. Feller's journey underscores delays: starting at 16, she entered alcohol treatment at 18 but ignored cannabis until age 23, achieving sobriety after her mother's death prompted reflection. A Florida Atlantic University study reveals treatment drops from 19% in 2003 to 13% in 2019, linked to tolerance and stigma. Dr. Jennifer Exo of Hazelden Betty Ford stresses education on misuse parallels to alcohol, urging early intervention. "If weed alters your life, resources exist—you're not alone," Feller advises. As Florida eyes 2026 recreational bids, experts call for vigilance to counter normalization's pitfalls, ensuring help reaches those shackled by dependency.