What Is the Impact of Cannabis on Mental Health Treatment for Depression and Anxiety? A Detailed Examination at Cannabis Use and its Influence on the Outcome of Therapy
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Authors
Baylis, Brandon
Issue Date
2025-09-09
Type
Capstone
Language
en
Keywords
cannabis , depression , anxiety , cannabidiol , harm reduction
Alternative Title
Abstract
The legalization of recreational cannabis in Canada has dramatically increased its availability and has changed attitudes surrounding cannabis and its usage. However, the impact of cannabis on mental health remains poorly understood despite its legalization, specifically its impact on depression and anxiety while users are in treatment. This paper is intended to synthesize existing literature on cannabis and its impact on therapeutic progress for individuals receiving treatment for depression and anxiety by way of a comprehensive literature review from the perspective of a harm reduction framework. The research reveals that while there are some components of cannabis like CBD that has the potential for therapeutic benefit, other components like THC are more likely to interfere with therapeutic progress. This capstone also proposes a framework for clinicians working with cannabis users who are in treatment for anxiety and depression that integrates harm reduction and clinical approaches, like psychoeducation and strength-based, solution-focused interventions. This paper aims to contribute to the limited amount of literature and knowledge on cannabis and its impact on mental health treatment outcomes, while also acting as a starting point for guidance for clinicians working with such populations.
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License
Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 United States
openAccess
openAccess