A previous post discussed cannabis (marijuana) use and Memory and academic performance and symptoms of depression and anxiety from cannabis withdrawal.
This post talks about a study looking at cannabis use and suicidal ideation.
What was the study (1)?
Dr Han and colleagues looked at data from 281 650 adult participants in the 2008-2019 National Surveys of Drug Use and Health data.
What were some study results (1)?
- Past-year Cannabis use disorder, daily cannabis use, and nondaily cannabis use were associated with a higher prevalence of past-year suicidal ideation, plan, and attempt in both sexes (eg, among individuals without Major depressive episode.)
- The prevalence of suicidal ideation for those with vs without Cannabis use disorder was 13.9% vs 3.5% among women and 9.9% vs 3.0% among men; P < .001).
- Suicide plan among those with Cannabis use disorder and major depressive episode was 52% higher for women [23.7%] than men [15.6%]; P < .001).
What are some caveats?
- This is just one study and further research is needed.
- While this study shows correlation between cannabis and suicidal ideation among those with depression, but does not show direct cause and effect.
- Future research is needed to examine this increase in suicidality and to determine whether it is due to cannabis use or other overlapping risk factors.
- According to this study, cannabis use can be concerning for suicidal ideation for those with and without major depressive disorder.
Additional information
- Alcohol and other drug treatment group at OSU Office of Student Life Counseling and Consultation Service.
- National Institute of Mental Health’s page on cannabis
- OSU Student Wellness Center
- Narcotics Anonymous Meetings: Columbus
- Marijuana Anonymous: Ohio
- www.southjerseyrecovery.com/alcohol-abuse/
- Hazelden
Treatment Facilities in the Columbus, Ohio area:
- OSU Talbot Hall Intensive Outpatient & Partial Hospitalization Program
- Columbus Springs: Addiction Treatment
- Woods at Parkside Partial Hospitalization Program
- Cornerstone of Recovery in Ohio Intensive Outpatient
- Maryhaven Intensive Outpatient Program
By R. Ryan S Patel DO, FAPA OSU-CCS Psychiatrist
Disclaimer: This article is intended to be informative only. It is advised that you check with your own physician/mental health provider before implementing any changes. With this article, the author is not rendering medical advice, nor diagnosing, prescribing, or treating any condition, or injury; and therefore claims no responsibility to any person or entity for any liability, loss, or injury caused directly or indirectly as a result of the use, application, or interpretation of the material presented.
References:
- Han B, Compton WM, Einstein EB, Volkow ND. Associations of Suicidality Trends With Cannabis Use as a Function of Sex and Depression Status. JAMA Netw Open. 2021;4(6):e2113025. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2021.13025