A McMaster University research study examined the association between cannabis and mood disorders and found parallels between rising cannabis use and mental‑health challenges. In addition, the findings published in The Canadian Journal of Psychiatry suggest this connection appeared to strengthen over time. The researchers suggested that more potent cannabinoid products, increased access, and chronic use for stress relief may contribute to the consumption patterns noted in the study.
The research team analyzed data from two Statistics Canada surveys of Canadians aged 15 and older. The team assessed cannabis use and mental‑health outcomes between 2012 and 2022. They found that the number of individuals consuming cannabis multiple times a week more than doubled. The number of people who reported cannabis use in the last year increased to 20.7 per cent. Analysis of 2022 data showed Canadians who used cannabis regularly (two or more times a week) were significantly more likely to report depression, anxiety, and/or suicidality than non-users.
Several findings revealed key insights into suicidality. One finding regarding suicidality did not change much in adults; however, this risk increased by 44% among youth. According to study author Dr. Jillian Halladay,"We see that Canadians who use cannabis tend to be more likely to meet criteria for anxiety and depressive disorders, and more likely to report suicidality. We also see that this co-occurrence has strengthened over time.” Cannabis users at any level were more at risk for depression, anxiety, and suicide compared to non-users, and this connection between cannabis consumption and these mental health problems strengthened over time.
One key finding indicated that the number of people reporting generalized anxiety disorder and a critical depressive episode almost doubled; these rates increased to 5.2% and 7.6%, respectively.
The findings highlight the need for more efficient and earlier detection of depression, anxiety, and suicidality among cannabis consumers. In addition, improved access to services that treat substance use and mental health issues together would offer a more effective public health strategy.
Sources: Eureka News Alert, Statistics Canada, The Canadian Journal of Psychiatry
