People who first use cannabis for self-medication purposes have been associated with a higher average rate of consumption as well as increased anxiety, depression, and paranoia, according to a new study published in the journal BMJ Mental Health.
The study participants reported a mean weekly consumption of 206 Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) units. The THC unit is a standardized measure of the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis.
“Initiating cannabis use for anxiety, depression or because ‘family members were using it’ was associated with higher weekly THC units,” the study said.
Using cannabis for the first time to relieve physical discomfort, pain, anxiety, depression, and minor psychotic symptoms were linked to higher paranoia scores….