For years, researchers have studied the effects of cannabis on young brains and separately explored the impacts of alcohol. But a new Canadian study goes a step further, looking at alcohol & cannabis use together in young people who now have legal access to both. Conducted by Dr. Jeffrey Wardell, the study offers the first large-scale view of how legal access shapes consumption patterns.
Previous research on alcohol & cannabis use mostly came from U.S. populations when marijuana was still illegal. Wardell wanted to know how motivations and risks change in a legal environment like Canada’s. Recent figures show that about 50 percent of Canadians aged 19 to 25 use marijuana to some degree, making this demographic key to understanding combined use.
The study tracked 150 participants over a year using a smartphone app to log their real-time habits. By focusing on when and why young adults combine substances, Wardell’s team gathered unprecedented detail about alcohol & cannabis use in everyday life.
They found a clear pattern: young people tended to use both substances during times of stress or negative emotions. Many reported that alcohol & cannabis use together produced a more intense high and helped them avoid unwanted feelings. However, Wardell warns that these effects come at a cost. Combining substances increases the risk for dependence, substance use disorder, and worsening mental health outcomes such as anxiety and depression.
The research underscores that the short-term appeal of alcohol & cannabis use can mask long-term dangers. While the immediate effects may feel stronger or more relaxing, the risk of addiction and mental health problems rises with combined consumption. Wardell advises students starting college or facing stressful new situations to be especially cautious.
Experts recommend practical steps to counter risky alcohol & cannabis use, such as setting limits, seeking social support, and finding healthier coping mechanisms like exercise or mindfulness practices. By making informed choices, young adults can reduce harm and protect their well-being.
This study is a reminder that legalization changes the landscape but not the potential hazards. Understanding the motivations and consequences behind alcohol & cannabis use is essential for public health campaigns, parents, and educators alike. As Canada continues to refine its approach to legal substances, evidence like Wardell’s will help shape policies and programs that keep young people safe while addressing the realities of modern alcohol & cannabis use.