As recreational use of cannabis is being decriminalized in many places and medical use widely sanctioned, there are growing concerns about the potential negative effects of cannabis abuse on mental health. While some individuals use cannabis for its perceived therapeutic benefits, others may develop a dependence on the substance, leading to various mental health disorders.
Several observational studies have investigated the association between cannabis use and intraocular pressure, but its association with mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression remains a topic of concern. Research suggests that long-term cannabis abuse can exacerbate existing mental health conditions and may even contribute to the development of new disorders.
The National Survey on Drug Use and Health estimated 2 million people aged 12 or older in the United States met criteria for Opioid Use Disorder, highlighting the widespread issue of substance abuse in the country. Cannabis abuse, in particular, has been linked to various negative outcomes, including impaired cognitive function, increased risk of psychosis, and addiction.
By Pat Anson, PNN Editor. The number of drug deaths involving both fentanyl and stimulants has soared in recent years, according to a new study. This alarming trend underscores the importance of addressing substance abuse, including cannabis abuse, to prevent further harm to individuals and communities.
The characteristics of substance use disorder (SUD) inpatients with co-occurring psychiatric disorders (COD) have been scantly described in research literature. Understanding the complex relationship between substance abuse and mental health is crucial for developing effective treatment strategies and interventions.
About 1 in 5 adolescents report symptoms of anxiety or depression, according to a KFF analysis of a new federal survey of teen health. Cannabis abuse among teens can exacerbate these mental health issues and may lead to a range of negative consequences, including academic difficulties and social problems.
Prenatal cannabis exposure after five to six weeks of pregnancy is associated with attention, social, and behavioral problems that persist into childhood and adolescence. Pregnant individuals should be informed about the potential risk of cannabis use on fetal development to make informed decisions about their health and the well-being of their children.
In this article, authors examined the patterns of cannabis use, misuse, and dependence in patients with psychiatric or anxiety disorder diagnoses in clinical settings. Identifying individuals at risk for cannabis abuse and providing appropriate interventions can help mitigate the negative impact of substance abuse on mental health outcomes.
The new DSM-5 modified the guidelines for diagnosing addiction, substance-related disorders, and alcohol use. This allows mental health professionals to accurately assess and treat individuals struggling with cannabis abuse and co-occurring mental health disorders, promoting better overall outcomes for patients.
