An estimated 200 million people worldwide use cannabis every day, but as the drug’s potency and availability rise, so do cases of dependence and cannabis-induced psychosis. Two new studies are shining a light on how motivations for cannabis use and early life trauma can shape both consumption patterns and long-term mental health outcomes.
Published on SciTech Daily, the research draws on data from Cannabis & Me, the largest survey of its kind, covering 3,389 current and former cannabis users aged 18 and older. Investigators asked about motivations for use, weekly THC consumption, and overall mental health. Their findings suggest that why a person begins using cannabis is strongly linked to their later experience of the drug — and their mental health risks.
According to Dr. Tom Freeman of the University of Bath, people who started cannabis mainly for social or recreational reasons tended to use less and reported fewer problems over time. In contrast, those who began using to cope with anxiety, depression, or pain — or because a family member was using consumed significantly more THC and experienced higher rates of paranoia, anxiety, and depression. This pattern underscores how self-medicating can sometimes backfire, worsening mental health rather than improving it.
The second paper examined the influence of trauma. Respondents with histories of emotional, physical, or sexual abuse reported much heavier cannabis use than average. Only certain types of trauma, however, notably emotional abuse and household discord, were linked to increased paranoia during cannabis use. These findings suggest that past trauma can amplify negative mental health effects of cannabis, making some individuals far more vulnerable to harm.
Average consumption among all respondents was 206 THC units per week, but those using cannabis to manage anxiety or depression consumed 20 percent more, while those who started because of household use consumed nearly 40 percent more. Such high levels of THC are known to elevate the risk of dependence, psychosis, and other mental health issues.
For public-health professionals, the takeaway is clear: understanding the motivations behind cannabis use is crucial for prevention and treatment strategies. People with trauma histories or existing mental health conditions may benefit from early screening, counseling, and education about cannabis risks. As legalization expands, policies that integrate mental health support with cannabis regulation could help reduce harm and improve outcomes for vulnerable populations, ensuring that the intersection of cannabis and mental health is addressed proactively rather than reactively.
