Exploratory Analysis on the Concept of Cannabis Induced Mental and Behavioral Disorder
Uchenna Collins Ojukwu, Esther U. Emekwisia, Gideon Prempeh Owusu, Obianujunwa M Ubah, Oluwapelumi I. Odubunmi, Oluwakemi M Bolarinwa, Evelyn Foster-Pagaebi, Suarau Oyindamola Christiana, Munachimso Emesobum, Godknows Osarhiaekhimen, Emmanuel E. Akagu
South Asian Research Journal of Medical Sciences July 29, 2025 DOI: 10.36346/sarjms.2025.v07i04.006 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Review Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Topics | Cannabis |
| Citations | 1 |
| Key findings | The authors report higher relative risks of psychosis/schizophrenia (RR 3.7), behavioral dysregulation (RR 2.8), cognitive impairment (RR 2.3), anxiety (RR 1.9), and depression (RR 1.6) among cannabis users, with prevalence estimates ranging from 4–8% for psychosis to 20–25% for cognitive impairment. They argue these findings indicate a strong relationship between frequent cannabis use and the onset of specific mental health disorders and support public health policies and clinical awareness targeting cannabis-related psychiatric risks. |
Abstract
Cannabis is one of the most widely used psychoactive substances worldwide, particularly among adolescents and young adults. While its medicinal applications have gained global attention, concerns regarding its psychiatric and behavioral side effects have intensified. This exploratory analysis delves into the correlation between cannabis use and the development of mental and behavioral disorders, highlighting both acute and chronic manifestations. This paper investigates the extent to which cannabis may induce disorders such as psychosis, anxiety, depression, and cognitive impairment. The findings revealed that the prevalence of psychosis/schizophrenia among users ranges from 4–8% with a relative risk (RR) of 3.7, depression shows a 12–15% prevalence with RR 1.6, anxiety disorders occur in 10–12% of users with RR 1.9, behavioral dysregulation affects 18–22% of users (RR 2.8), and cognitive impairment is seen in 20–25% with an RR of 2.3. A bar chart visualizing these relative risks is presented. These findings suggest a strong relationship between frequent cannabis use and the onset of specific mental health disorders, highlighting the need for public health policies focused on mitigating cannabis-related psychiatric risks. The study also examines demographic trends, usage patterns, and mental health outcomes across different populations. A table and graph summarize the key statistical relationships found. This paper emphasizes the need for balanced public health policies and improved clinical awareness regarding the psychiatric risks of cannabis use.