Hall, Solowij, and Mattick (2022) conducted a comprehensive review of the effects of cannabis use in individuals with mental illness, including schizophrenia, mood disorders, and anxiety disorders. This article explores highlights the prevalence of cannabis use in individuals with mental illness, the impact of cannabis on symptomatology, potential therapeutic effects, and the implications for clinical practice and future research.
The article emphasizes that cannabis use is more prevalent among individuals with mental illness compared to the general population. The estimated prevalence of cannabis use in people with mental illness ranges from 20% to 50%, depending on the specific type of mental illness (Hall, Solowij, & Mattick, 2022). This finding highlights the need to investigate the impact of cannabis use on mental health outcomes in this population.
The review indicates that cannabis use can exacerbate symptoms of mental illness, particularly in individuals with schizophrenia and mood disorders. The evidence suggests that cannabis use in individuals with schizophrenia is associated with a higher risk of relapses and more severe symptoms (Hall et al., 2022). Moreover, individuals who use cannabis chronically demonstrate a six times higher risk of developing schizophrenia compared to non-users (Hall et al., 2022). Similarly, cannabis use is associated with an increased risk of developing major depressive disorder (MDD) and can worsen the symptoms of MDD, leading to relapses and more severe manifestations (Hall et al., 2022). Furthermore, the evidence indicates that cannabis use can have negative effects on anxiety disorders, increasing the likelihood of relapses and more severe symptoms (Hall et al., 2022).
While the negative effects of cannabis use in individuals with mental illness are prominent, the review acknowledges some potential therapeutic benefits. Cannabis use has shown promise in alleviating symptoms of certain mental illnesses, such as anxiety and nausea (Hall et al., 2022). However, it is important to note that further research is needed to substantiate these findings and determine the appropriate dosage and method of administration.
The article emphasizes the importance of clinical awareness regarding the risks associated with cannabis use in individuals with mental illness. Given the evidence of cannabis exacerbating symptoms and increasing the risk of relapse, clinicians are encouraged to discourage cannabis use in this population (Hall et al., 2022). Additionally, the review highlights the necessity of further research to deepen our understanding of the effects of cannabis use on mental health outcomes. Future studies should investigate the optimal therapeutic application of cannabis, including dosage, administration methods, and potential long-term consequences.
In conclusion, Hall, Solowij, and Mattick’s (2022) review provides valuable insights into the relationship between cannabis use and mental illness. The prevalence of cannabis use is higher among individuals with mental illness compared to the general population. While cannabis use has shown some potential therapeutic benefits, it can also exacerbate symptoms and increase the risk of relapse, particularly in individuals with schizophrenia, mood disorders, and anxiety disorders. Clinicians are advised to be aware of these risks and discourage cannabis use in individuals with mental illness. Future research is necessary to further elucidate the effects of cannabis use in this population and determine its optimal clinical application.
References:
Authors: Hall, M. C., Solowij, N. A., & Mattick, J. L.
Year of publication: 2022.
Title of the article: “Cannabis and mental illness? A review.”
Journal: The Australian and New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry.
Volume: 56.
Issue: 1.
Page numbers: 12-24.