Adolescents face numerous challenges as they grow, and some turn to substances like cannabis during this sensitive phase. However, research continues to uncover significant risks associated with early cannabis use. A recent large-scale study involving over 11,000 adolescents sheds light on a concerning relationship between cannabis use and psychosis spectrum symptoms, offering vital insights into the mental health impacts of drug use during youth.

About the Study

The research, conducted as part of the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) Study, explored how cannabis use during adolescence relates to psychosis spectrum symptoms. Psychosis spectrum symptoms can include hallucinations, paranoia, and other disturbances in thinking or perception, which can have severe consequences for mental well-being. The study followed participants aged 9 to 10 at baseline for four years, examining their mental health before and after initiating cannabis use.

Key Findings

The study produced three main findings, contributing to a deeper understanding of how cannabis use relates to mental health risks in adolescents.

1. Shared Vulnerability

Adolescents who used cannabis during the study reported a higher number of psychosis spectrum symptoms and greater distress from these symptoms compared to those who never used cannabis. This finding highlights a potential shared vulnerability, where individuals may be predisposed to both psychosis and cannabis use, underscoring the genetic or environmental risks that can influence both outcomes.

2. Self-Medication Concerns

Interestingly, the study found evidence that adolescents experienced an increase in psychosis-related symptoms and distress in the period leading up to cannabis use. This aligns with the self-medication hypothesis, suggesting some teens might resort to cannabis in an attempt to cope with early mental health difficulties. While they might believe cannabis offers relief, these self-medication efforts often exacerbate the underlying problems, leading to long-term consequences.

3. Limited Evidence for Increased Risk After Use

While the research indicated mixed evidence for an increase in psychotic symptoms after cannabis initiation, the findings do not negate potential risks. Cannabis use itself may not directly cause a sharp rise in symptoms for everyone, but in vulnerable young people, its effects on the developing brain can worsen pre-existing mental health challenges.

Why Adolescence Matters

Teenage years are a time of fast brain growth, and any interference can have serious effects later in their lives. For teens showing early mental health struggles, avoiding substances like cannabis is especially important to protect their well-being. Cannabis, with its psychoactive effects, can disrupt normal brain function and development, potentially increasing vulnerability to mental health disorders such as psychosis. Importantly, adolescents with early signs of psychosis are particularly at risk of compounding these issues by turning to substances like cannabis.

The Broader Implications

Recent research highlights the significant mental health risks associated with adolescent cannabis use. A study published in Psychological Medicine found that “cannabis use during adolescence significantly increases the risk of developing psychotic disorders, but this risk is not significant during young adulthood.” See more

These findings emphasise the need to safeguard young people from substance use. Adolescents must be supported in avoiding substances that put their mental and emotional well-being at risk. Preventing cannabis use could help mitigate the shared vulnerabilities that contribute to both psychosis and drug use, creating a healthier, more stable environment for teens to thrive.

Staying Vigilant

It is important to protect the mental health of young people. Helping them avoid the risks of using cannabis early can lead to healthier and happier futures. By reducing access to substances and fostering awareness of their dangers, communities can diminish the factors that lead young people down paths riddled with risk.

The connection between adolescent cannabis use and psychosis spectrum symptoms is a clear reminder of the significance of prevention. Together, we can take steps to create a world where the mental health and potential of young people is prioritised, free from the shadow of harmful substance use.

Source: Jama Network