Policy Implications of the Evidence on Cannabis Use and Psychosis

doi:10.1017/9781108943246.007

Chapter 6 - Policy Implications of the Evidence on Cannabis Use and Psychosis

from Part II - The Changing Face of Cannabis

Published online by Cambridge University Press: 12 May 2023

Wayne Hall and

Louisa Degenhardt

Edited by

Deepak Cyril D'Souza ,

David Castle and

Sir Robin Murray

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Deepak Cyril D'Souza: Affiliation:
Staff Psychiatrist, VA Connecticut Healthcare System; Professor of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine
David Castle: Affiliation:
University of Tasmania, Australia
Sir Robin Murray: Affiliation:
Honorary Consultant Psychiatrist, Psychosis Service at the South London and Maudsley NHS Trust; Professor of Psychiatric Research at the Institute of Psychiatry

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Summary

There is consistent observational evidence and biological plausibility for the hypothesis that regular cannabis use is a contributory cause of psychosis. The evidence is at least as strong as that for causal relationships between heavy alcohol and amphetamine use and psychosis. On the grounds of prudence, the evidence warrants organized efforts to discourage regular cannabis use among adolescents and young adults. Clinical services should specifically identify young adults with psychoses who use cannabis and encourage them to desist. We need to develop preventive programmes that effectively inform young people about the mental health risks of early and frequent cannabis use. Jurisdictions that have legalized cannabis for medical or recreational use should regulate cannabis products in ways that reduce young people’s access to high potency products at an early age and prevent cannabis retailers from promoting more frequent and longer-term cannabis use among young adults.

Keywords

cannabis use psychosis policy mental health services health education penalties

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Type: Chapter
Information: Marijuana and Madness , pp. 51 - 60

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1017/9781108943246.007 [Opens in a new window]

Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Print publication year: 2023

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