A deep dive into the UK's cannabis statistics

Cannabis Facts, Figures and Statistics

Cannabis is the most commonly used illicit drug in the UK, impacting individuals and society in various ways.  Despite being illegal, its widespread use in both social settings and as a means of self-medication presents ongoing challenges.

This page offers an in-depth look at cannabis use in the UK through statistics, including its prevalence, health effects, addiction rates, treatment outcomes, and societal impacts.

What is cannabis?

Cannabis, also known as marijuana, is a psychoactive drug derived from the Cannabis plant. It is commonly used in its dried form (herb) or as a resin (hashish) and can be smoked, vaporised, or ingested. The primary active compound, THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), is responsible for the drug’s psychoactive effects.

Excessive or habitual use can lead to dependency and a range of physical, mental, and social issues.

Did you know?

INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT CANNABIS

A history of cannabis use

Cannabis has been used by humans for millennia, with its cultivation traced back to ancient China around 2,500 BCE, primarily for medicinal, fibre, and dietary purposes. It spread to India, where it became central to religious and medicinal practices. In the 20th century, cannabis gained recognition in Western societies, initially for medicinal use, before becoming increasingly regulated and criminalised.

What makes cannabis addictive?

Cannabis is highly addictive due to its powerful effect on the brain’s reward system, where it increases levels of the neurotransmitter dopamine, creating intense feelings of euphoria and pleasure. This rapid build-up of dopamine reinforces drug-taking behaviour, making users crave repeated use to replicate the high.

CANNABIS USE IN NUMBERS

Cannabis statistics in the UK

Cannabis usage in the UK

14 million people use cannabis making it the UK’s most used illicit drug.

Age group usage

16.2% of adults aged 16 to 24 years have used cannabis in the last year.

Frequency of use

More than one-third (38.7%) of adults aged 16 to 59 who used cannabis in the past year consumed it at least once a month, with 11.5% of these individuals using it daily.

Treatment

Cannabis is responsible for 30% of all admissions, into addiction treatment in the EU.

Health Impact

The prevalence of cannabis use disorder (CUD), was found to be twice as high in men compared to women.

Frequency of addiction

About 10% of people, who begin smoking cannabis will become addicted.

Genetic links

Some genetic studies suggest that developing cannabis addiction is hereditary

Living with addiction

30% of current users for cannabis meet the criteria for addiction.

Medicinal use

While cannabis remains illegal for recreational use in the UK, it has been legal for medicinal use since November 2018 under certain conditions.

The socioeconomic factors influencing cannabis use suggest that those in urban areas and lower-income brackets are more likely to use cannabis, highlighting a need for targeted prevention and education efforts in these communities.

Individuals earning less than £10,400 per year were the most likely to use cannabis, with a usage rate of 13.2%. In contrast, those in the highest income brackets were more likely to use Class A drugs.

Cannabis stats infographic

HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS

How does cannabis affect health?

Short term effects

Euphoria and relaxation

Altered perception of time and space

Impaired memory and coordination

Increased heart rate and anxiety

Long term effects

Cognitive impairments, particularly in memory and attention

Increased risk of mental health disorders, including schizophrenia in predisposed individuals

Respiratory issues, particularly when smoked

Dependency and withdrawal symptoms, including irritability and insomnia

Can you overdose on cannabis?

While a fatal overdose from cannabis alone is extremely rare, high doses can lead to severe anxiety, paranoia, and in some cases, acute psychotic reactions, particularly in individuals with a predisposition to mental health issues.

Cannabis overdose symptoms include:

  • Drowsiness
  • Vomiting
  • Panic attacks
  • Memory problems
  • Difficulty breathing

These symptoms are usually temporary but can be distressing.

CANNABIS ADDICITION IN NUMBERS

More cannabis use statistics

Frequency of addiction

About 10% of people, who begin smoking cannabis will become addicted.

Genetic links

Some genetic studies suggest that developing cannabis addiction is hereditary

Living with addiction

30% of current users for cannabis meet the criteria for addiction.

Medicinal use

While cannabis remains illegal for recreational use in the UK, it has been legal for medicinal use since November 2018 under certain conditions.

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GETTING HELP

Can cannabis addiction be treated?

While long-term cannabis use can lead to dependence and make quitting more challenging, many individuals have successfully achieved recovery with the right support and treatment.

 Effective treatment for cannabis addiction often involves behavioural therapies, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET). Success rates vary, but at Providence Projects, our treatment programs have shown significant effectiveness in helping individuals achieve long-term recovery. 

100%

Client satisfaction with our service

95%

Complete their detox programme

92%

Complete their treatment programme

Our addiction specialists are here 24 hours a day

Resources and support for cannabis addiction

NHS Drug Addiction Helpline

The NHS Drug Addiction Helpline provides support and information about local drug treatment services in the UK, helping individuals find the assistance they need to overcome addiction. It offers confidential advice and resources to guide people towards recovery and healthier lifestyles.

FRANK

Frank is a confidential helpline in the UK that provides advice and information about drugs, including cannabis, available 24/7 through phone, text, and their website. It offers support, guidance, and resources for individuals struggling with drug use and their families.

Marijuana Anonymous

Marijuana Anonymous (MA) is a support group modelled after Alcoholics Anonymous, specifically for individuals seeking to recover from marijuana addiction. It offers a safe, non-judgmental environment where members can attend meetings, work through the 12-step program, and support each other in achieving and maintaining sobriety.

Release

Release is a UK-based organisation that provides legal advice, information, and support to individuals affected by drug use, including those facing drug-related legal issues. The organisation also advocates for policy changes, aiming to ensure that drug laws and policies are just, fair, and humane.

We Are With You

We Are With You (formerly known as Addaction) is a UK charity that provides free and confidential support to people experiencing issues with drugs, alcohol, or mental health. They work across communities to help people make positive changes in their lives and improve their well-being.

Say Yes to a Life Free from Cannabis Addiction

Embrace a fresh start and take control of your life by breaking free from cannabis addiction with Providence Projects. Our dedicated team is here to guide you through every stage of recovery.  Begin your path to lasting change today—reach out and let us help you build a healthier, brighter future.

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