Study Reveals Link Between Schizophrenia and Cannabis Use Disorder, Most Prevalent Among Young Men
Study Reveals Link Between Schizophrenia and Cannabis Use Disorder, Most Prevalent Among Young Men
June 7, 2023
As legalization and use of cannabis (marijuana) continues to increase, researchers are discovering more about cannabis’ health effects, especially in young people. According to a study led by researchers at the Mental Health Services in the Capital Region of Denmark and the National Institute on Drug Abuse, young men with cannabis use disorder have an increased risk of developing schizophrenia.
Schizophrenia is a serious yet treatable mental disorder that affects how an individual thinks, feels and behaves. People with schizophrenia often seem like they have lost touch with reality, have difficulty participating in everyday activities, and often struggle interacting with those around them. Researchers found strong evidence linking cannabis use disorder and schizophrenia, both among men and women, but especially men aged 21-30. The study estimates that up to 30% of schizophrenia cases among the demographic might have been prevented in absence of cannabis use disorder. To learn more about this study and its results, you can read the full article here: https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/young-men-highest-risk-schizophrenia-linked-cannabis-use-disorder.
Marijuana/Cannabis use disorder develops as people find themselves unable to stop using cannabis, despite the health and social problems it causes in their lives. One study estimated approximately 3 out of 10 cannabis users have marijuana use disorder. Other negative consequences of marijuana use include problems with attention, memory, and learning. To understand more about marijuana addiction, please read the article here: https://www.cdc.gov/marijuana/health-effects/addiction.html.
The NYCDCC Welfare Fund’s Members Education and Network for Dependency Program (“MEND”) provides assistance to participants and dependents struggling with substance use and/or mental health issues. The MEND Program is located at 395 Hudson Street, 5th Floor, New York, NY, 10014, and can be reached by phone at (212) 366-7590 or by email at MEND@nyccbf.org. MEND operates under strict confidentiality restrictions and is here to help you and your loved ones.
To learn more about the MEND Program, visit https://nyccbf.org/news-media/mend-program-and-wellness/.
