A new study from the Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs highlights a concerning trend in Arizona: a 20% rise in cannabis-related hospital visits between 2016 and 2021, with a significant share—25%—involving a primary diagnosis of mental health disorders such as depression, bipolar disorder, or psychosis. In contrast, only 3% of non-cannabis hospital visits were primarily tied to mental health issues.
Patients with cannabis-related visits were nearly eight times more likely to be diagnosed with a mental health condition, and this association grew stronger over the five-year study period.
While the study does not pinpoint a single cause, lead author Dr. Madeline Meier of Arizona State University suggests that easier access to medical cannabis—legal in Arizona during the entire study period—may have contributed. She also notes the increasing potency of cannabis products and possible self-medication among users as factors requiring further research and public awareness.
Particularly noteworthy is the sharp rise in cannabis-related hospitalizations among adults aged 65 and older, possibly due to changing social norms and increased product potency. The study underscores the urgent need for improved public education on cannabis use and mental health, especially given emerging evidence that cannabis may worsen or trigger psychiatric symptoms.
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