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Amar Ghelani

5 papers in the library · publishing 2021-2025

Papers

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“One thing we all know we can connect on”: A qualitative study of cannabis use and the social dynamics of young adults with first episode psychosis

Psychosis September 23, 2025 Amar Ghelani

ABSTRACT Background: Cannabis consumption is common among young adults with First Episode Psychosis (FEP). Mental health professionals tend to discourage its use due to concerns around symptom exacerbation and negative social outcomes. However, young adults report using cannabis for social and relational enhancement purposes. This study investigates the social aspects of cannabis use in service...

A Qualitative Study of Cannabis Use and Family Dynamics Among Youth in Early Psychosis Programs

Journal of dual diagnosis June 16, 2025 Amar Ghelani

Abstract Objective Cannabis use contributes to negative psychosocial outcomes among youth in Early Psychosis Intervention (EPI) programs and families are crucial to recovery. This study sought to understand how youth in EPI programs perceive their families to influence their cannabis use and how cannabis affects family relationships. Methods A qualitative approach and thematic analysis were...

Perspectives on cannabis risks and harm reduction among youth in Early Psychosis Intervention programs: a qualitative study

Mental Health and Social Inclusion December 2, 2024 Amar Ghelani

Purpose The Canadian government legalized cannabis in 2018 and funded harm reduction campaigns to educate youth about the risks. Cannabis can contribute to psychosis in vulnerable populations, and consumption is common among youth in Early Psychosis Intervention (EPI) programs. The purpose of this study is to understand the views of youth in EPI programs on the risks related to cannabis and...

Perspectives toward cannabidiol (CBD) among youth in Early Psychosis Intervention programs: A qualitative study.

Early Intervention in Psychiatry January 2024 Amar Ghelani

Cannabis is used by one third of youth in Early Psychosis Intervention (EPI) programs and high dose consumption of the primary constituent Δ-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is associated with higher risk for relapse in this group. Cannabidiol (CBD) is a secondary cannabis constituent that may have antipsychotic properties, though its health risks are only beginning to be understood. Little is...

Motivations for cannabis use in youth with first episode psychosis: a scoping review

Psychosis November 12, 2021 Amar Ghelani, G. Armstrong, A. Haywood

ABSTRACT Background Youth in First Episode Psychosis (FEP) programs have high rates of cannabis use and consumption is associated with negative treatment outcomes. Motivations for use in this group are under-studied and investigating reasons for use can aid in the development of engagement strategies. Methods This scoping review uses the framework proposed by Arksey & O’Malley and PRISMA ScR to...