Cannabis is changing, and experts are learning more about how it can affect mental health. Here are five key facts from the Canadian Medical Association Journal about cannabis and its link to psychosis:
Cannabis is getting stronger: In Canada, the main active ingredient in cannabis, THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), has become much more concentrated. In the last 20 years, the average THC level in dried cannabis has jumped from 4% to 20%. Stronger cannabis may have stronger effects on the brain.
Stronger cannabis and regular use raise the risk of psychosis: People who use cannabis with high THC levels (over 10%), use it often, are younger or male, or have a history of mental health issues (like anxiety or depression) are more likely to develop psychosis. Psychosis is when someone loses touch with reality, and it can be a serious mental health condition.
Cannabis-related mental health issues may lead to schizophrenia: A large study in Ontario found that people who went to the emergency room for cannabis-related problems were much more likely to later be diagnosed with a schizophrenia-related disorder. The risk was 14 times higher for people with cannabis use disorder and 241 times higher for those with cannabis-induced psychosis.
Stopping cannabis and taking medication can help: If someone experiences cannabis-induced psychosis, the first step is to stop using cannabis. Continuing to use it increases the risk of symptoms coming back. In more severe cases, antipsychotic medication may be needed to manage symptoms.
Therapy can support quitting cannabis: People who want to stop using cannabis may benefit from talking therapies like motivational interviewing or cognitive behavioral therapy. These approaches can help people build skills to manage cravings and stick with treatment.
According to Dr. Nicholas Fabiano, a psychiatrist at the University of Ottawa, “Cannabis today is not the same as it was 20 years ago. The much higher THC levels may explain why we’re seeing a stronger link between cannabis and schizophrenia.”
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The study is published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal.
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