Teen Cannabis Use Doubles Psychosis Risk

Adolescent cannabis use is associated with a doubled risk of developing psychotic and bipolar disorders, according to a recent American study. The research, published in JAMA Health Forum, tracked 463,396 individuals aged 13 to 17, finding that past-year cannabis use significantly increased the likelihood of serious psychiatric problems by age 26.

Beyond psychotic and bipolar disorders, the study revealed a substantially higher risk for depressive and anxiety issues among teen users. Electronic health records from routine pediatric visits between 2016 and 2023 showed cannabis use preceding psychiatric diagnoses by an average of 1.7 to 2.3 years.

The research team emphasized that their study design strengthens the evidence linking adolescent cannabis exposure to mental illness development. They noted that as cannabis products become more potent and aggressively marketed, a public health response is crucial. This response should focus on reducing product potency, prioritizing prevention, limiting youth exposure and marketing, and treating adolescent cannabis use as a serious health concern.

This study included all self-reported cannabis use among teens during standard pediatric care, not just heavy users. Even when controlling for pre-existing mental health conditions and other substance use, adolescents reporting cannabis use demonstrated a substantially elevated risk for psychiatric disorders, particularly psychotic and bipolar conditions, underscoring potential detrimental long-term health effects.