Understanding the Link Between Cannabis Use and Suicide Risks
Written on
Chapter 1: Cannabis and Mental Health
Recent research involving over 280,000 young adults indicates that cannabis consumption is linked to a heightened risk of suicidal thoughts, plans, and attempts. Notably, this correlation persists even when accounting for depression, underscoring the need for deeper investigation into the relationship between substance use and mental health.
Important Note: This article addresses sensitive topics related to suicidal thoughts and behaviors. If you or someone you know needs support, please refer to the resources available from the Suicide Prevention Resource Center.
In conversations about cannabis, two distinct groups often emerge: those who advocate for its medicinal properties—citing questionable studies that claim it can cure ailments like cancer and depression—and those who oppose it based on misconceptions.
The reality surrounding cannabis and its potential risks is complex. As a science communicator, it is vital to present research findings objectively. The analysis conducted by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) was published in the JAMA Network Open journal.
Nora Volkow, M.D., the NIDA Director and senior author of the study, stated, “While we cannot establish that cannabis use caused the increased suicidality we observed in this study, these associations warrant further research, especially given the great burden of suicide on young adults.”
Between 2008 and 2019, many states began decriminalizing cannabis, coinciding with a significant rise in both its usage and the number of daily consumers. During this period, diagnoses of depression also increased, along with reports of suicidal ideation. However, prior to this study, there had been no comprehensive analysis of how these elements interact.
Volkow emphasized, “As we better understand the relationship between cannabis use, depression, and suicidality, clinicians will be able to provide better guidance and care to patients.”
What Did the Study Analyze?
NIDA researchers accessed annual survey responses to assess cannabis use, depression, and suicidal tendencies. They focused on a sample of 281,650 adults aged 18–35 from 2008 to 2019. Cannabis use was categorized into four groups: no use, non-daily use, daily use (300+ days a year), and those with cannabis use disorders. Specific diagnostic questions were utilized to identify depressive disorders.
The analysis revealed a robust connection between any form of cannabis use and suicidal thoughts, plans, and attempts. Even individuals who consumed cannabis fewer than 300 days a year reported higher instances of suicidal ideation and planning. This correlation remained consistent regardless of the controlled variables, including both those with and without depression. Interestingly, women showed a higher risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors compared to men.
After considering various factors, the study found that cannabis use raised the risk of suicidal ideation, planning, or attempts by 1.4 to 1.6 times.
Conclusions Drawn from the Study
While some may hastily dismiss these conclusions—remembering that correlation does not imply causation—there are a few noteworthy observations.
- Mental health issues are increasingly prevalent and need addressing.
- There exists a link between cannabis use and suicide risk, though the underlying reasons remain unclear.
- Women appear to be more susceptible than men.
Chapter 2: The State of Mental Health Today
The last decade has witnessed a rise in mental health challenges, with the incidence of such issues increasing from 20.02% to 29.63% since 2017. Concerns surrounding COVID-19 have further exacerbated this trend, as one in three individuals recovering from the virus faces neurological complications.
Despite the growing need, funding for preventive mental health education remains insufficient. The study highlights a troubling increase in suicidal thoughts, plans, and attempts, suggesting that more attention is needed in this area.
Cannabis Use and Suicide Risk
The criminalization of cannabis has historically hindered scientific research. This study adds another piece to the puzzle regarding cannabis use and mental health. The researchers acknowledged the limitations of their work, noting that self-reported data may be biased, and questions regarding suicidal ideation could lead to misinterpretation.
The research does not assert causality but emphasizes the need for longitudinal studies that track individuals over several years and collect data on anxiety and impulse-control disorders, which often co-occur with depression and cannabis use disorders.
What does it mean when we assert that cannabis users have a higher risk of suicidal ideation? For instance, if the base rate of suicidal ideation is 4%, cannabis use might elevate that figure to 5.6%. Thus, per 100,000 individuals, this translates to an increase from 4,000 to 5,600 individuals.
Cannabis, alcohol, and nicotine all carry inherent risks. While cannabis may be relatively safer than other legal substances, it still presents side effects and uncertainties due to the limited research available.
The Gender Disparity in Cannabis Use
One intriguing aspect of this study is the pronounced difference in risk between genders. Why are women more affected? Could this indicate the presence of an additional variable that disproportionately impacts women?
This finding suggests a necessity for more comprehensive research examining the effects of cannabis use across genders. Historically, women have been underrepresented in clinical trials, and a better understanding of these differences may allow for earlier identification of risks.
Final Thoughts
The research indicates a significant correlation between cannabis use and suicidal ideation, planning, and attempts. While causation is not established, the link persists even when considering the frequency of cannabis use and depression. The effects appear more pronounced in women.
This article does not aim to vilify cannabis; rather, it seeks to raise awareness of its potential risks. The nature of this relationship remains complex, and further research is essential to clarify these dynamics.
Video Resources
To better understand the implications of cannabis use on mental health, check out the following videos:
This video discusses the rising rates of cannabis use disorders and suicide among transitional age youth.
This video explores the impacts of marijuana on youth mental health.