The Impact of Marijuana on Mental Health
Christine L. Miller
Contemporary Health Issues on Marijuana June 1, 2018 DOI: 10.1093/med-psych/9780190263072.003.0006 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Review Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Topics | Cannabis |
| Key findings | Argues that the literature substantiates a significant causal role for marijuana use in chronic psychotic disorders, and shows a strong association with mood disorders and suicidal behaviors. Contends that these mental health impacts should inform public health programs and drug control policies regarding legal status. |
Abstract
The association between marijuana use and several mental health outcomes is examined, with particular reference to commonly held views on the lack of proof for a causal basis. Rather than relying on a single, key criterion for proof of causation, a collective approach is taken to the question through reviewing studies testing different criteria. Exploration of the psychiatric epidemiology on marijuana reveals trends in early reports that have been confirmed through more detailed studies in recent years and further bolstered by clinical findings. A significant, causal role for marijuana use in chronic psychotic disorders is substantiated by the literature, as well as a strong association with mood disorders and suicidal behaviors. This chapter reinforces the importance of considering marijuana’s mental health impacts when formulating appropriate public health programs and when fashioning drug control policies concerning its legal status.
Comparable studies
Other narrative reviews on cannabis, most cited first.
| Study | Year | Design | Participants |
|---|---|---|---|
| Causal association between cannabis and psychosis: examination of the evidence | 2004 | Review | |
| Cannabis sativa: A comprehensive ethnopharmacological review of a medicinal plant with a long history. General (historical and pharmacological review) | 2018 | Review | |
| Psychiatric effects of cannabis | 2001 | Review | |
| Beyond THC: The New Generation of Cannabinoid Designer Drugs | 2011 | Review | |
| Cannabidiol, a Cannabis sativa constituent, as an antipsychotic drug | 2006 | Review |