Ganja and bhang: when occasional use becomes addiction
गांजा और भांग की लत
Ganja is the dried flowering top of the cannabis plant, usually smoked in a chillum or joint. Bhang is made from leaves and taken as a drink or in sweets, sometimes during festivals.
Many people believe cannabis is harmless because it is "herbal". Regular use, especially in teenagers, can lead to dependence and mental health problems.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Kuldeep Budania, MBBS, MD Psychiatry
Common symptoms
- Using daily or most days, often alone
- Red eyes, increased appetite, laziness, slowed reactions
- Loss of interest in studies, work and family
- Anger and poor sleep when not using
Causes
- Peer groups, curiosity and stress relief
- Self-treating anxiety or sleep problems
Risk factors
- Starting before age 18
- Family history of psychosis or addiction
Signs of dependence
- Strong craving and difficulty controlling the amount
- Needing more for the same effect (tolerance)
- Continuing despite harm to health, money or family
- Unable to sleep or eat normally without it
Withdrawal symptoms
- Irritability, anger, anxiety and restlessness
- Poor sleep and vivid dreams, reduced appetite
- Usually peaks in the first week and settles over 2–4 weeks
Health consequences
- Psychosis (suspiciousness, hearing voices), especially with heavy use or high-potency forms
- Poor memory, concentration and motivation; falling academic or work performance
- Anxiety, panic and depression; lung irritation when smoked with tobacco
- Road accidents when driving intoxicated
- Edible bhang acts slowly — people take more and can have severe anxiety, vomiting or confusion
Relapse prevention
- Identify triggers — people, places, stress, celebrations, payday — and plan for them
- Continue medicines and follow-up even after feeling better
- Replace old routines: exercise, work, religious or social activities
- A slip is not failure — contact the doctor early rather than hiding it
How it is diagnosed
- Assessment of frequency, amount and effects on functioning
- Screening for psychosis, depression and anxiety
Classification: ICD-10 F12 · ICD-11 6C41
Treatment options
- 1Motivational counselling and a quit plan
- 2Short-term medicines for sleep or anxiety during withdrawal, if needed
- 3Treatment of psychosis, depression or anxiety if present
Psychotherapy and counselling
- CBT and motivational enhancement therapy — the main treatments
- Family sessions for teenagers
Guidance for family
- Talk when the person is sober; express concern without insults or threats
- Do not give money that may be used for drugs; avoid covering up consequences
- Do not try home detox or lock the person in a room — seek medical help
- Look after your own health; family counselling helps everyone
When to see a psychiatrist
- Suspiciousness, hearing voices or strange behaviour — urgent
- Daily use or failed attempts to cut down
Thoughts of self-harm or a medical emergency? Call Tele-MANAS 14416 (24×7, free) or 112.
Free self-assessment
A short screening in Hindi or English. Private — nothing is saved. Screening does not establish a diagnosis.
Frequently asked questions
Is bhang during Holi harmful?
Occasional use may not cause addiction, but edible bhang can trigger panic, vomiting or confusion, and people with psychosis or heart disease should avoid it.
Is cannabis addictive?
Yes. A significant proportion of regular users develop dependence, especially those who start young.
Can de-addiction treatment be done online?
Assessment, medicines, counselling and follow-up can often be done by video. People with severe withdrawal, other serious illness or no support at home may need admission at a local hospital — you will be guided.
Help is available — confidential, in Hindi or English.
Private video consultation from anywhere in India with an Ajmer-based psychiatrist. Psychiatry consultation ₹500.
This page is for education and does not replace a personal consultation. Do not start or stop any medicine without a doctor's advice.