Marijuana Use for Stress Relief May Increase Paranoia, Studies Warn
Cannabis is getting stronger, and so are its health risks, according to new research that raises alarm about its potential to worsen mental health issues, especially for those using it to cope with anxiety, depression, or trauma. Two recent studies, published in BMJ Mental Health and Psychological Medicine, reveal that people who start using marijuana to manage stress, pain, or emotional struggles are more likely to develop paranoia and anxiety over time.
The first study, which analyzed data from over 3,000 cannabis users, found that those who used the drug to cope with personal distress were significantly more likely to report heightened paranoia and mental health struggles compared to those who used it for curiosity or social reasons. Researchers also noted that modern cannabis products, with THC levels averaging 30% or higher—up from around 1% in the 1960s—are contributing to the growing concern.
Dr. Giulia Trotta, a psychiatrist at King’s College London and lead author of the first study, emphasized that cannabis can exacerbate the effects of childhood trauma, making it more likely for individuals with a history of abuse or emotional pain to experience worsening paranoia. She advises healthcare providers to screen for trauma when treating patients with mental health issues associated with cannabis use.
The second study, published in Psychological Medicine, focused on the link between childhood trauma, cannabis use, and increased paranoia. It highlighted that individuals exposed to physical or emotional abuse were more vulnerable to mental health challenges, and cannabis appeared to amplify these risks.
Riana Durrett, director of the UNLV Cannabis Policy Institute, warned that while cannabis can offer medical benefits, it should not be used as a self-medication tool for anxiety or trauma. She called for stricter youth prevention measures and called for more research comparing cannabis use with alcohol consumption. Dr. Marta Di Forti of King’s College London added that policymakers must take these findings into account as more people turn to cannabis for relief from stress and trauma, noting that self-medication carries significant risks for mental health and well-being.