Analysis of the new study on cannabis abuse vs. depression
Millions of people around the world are using cannabis to treat mood issues as legalization continues to spread.
People smoke weed to relieve anxiety and depression, and many have experienced life-saving relief. Given its status as a potent neuromodulator, it’s no surprise that people suffering from nervous system dysregulation seek out cannabis for its multiple effects. In addition to the potential for abuse and potential for harm, cannabis has the ability to help.
Last week, The Wall Street Journal ran a column headlined “Cannabis Linked to Mental Illness,” referencing an article published in JAMA Psychiatry in May: The study concluded that in patients presenting with a cannabis use disorder (CUD) was found to have a higher than average likelihood of being subsequently diagnosed with depression or bipolar disorder.
However, the study authors acknowledge that correlation may not equal causation. And the study struggled with so-called “detection bias” in its focus population.
Nick Jikomes Ph.D., Director of Science and Innovation at Leafly, and Emily Earlenbaugh Ph.D., Health and Science Correspondent at Leafly, explain what the study says — and doesn’t say — and provide some key missing links in the half at. Hourly discussion below. Click on the video to tune in.
Leafly Senior Editor David Downs is the former cannabis editor of the San Francisco Chronicle. He has appeared on the Today Show and written for Scientific American, The New York Times, WIRED, Rolling Stone, The Onion A/V Club, High Times, and more. He is a judge for the 2023 Emerald Cup and has been involved with weed since 2009.
Check out David Downs articles
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