Mood and anxiety disorder patients reported both benefits and worsening from cannabis, rarely consulting doctors

Cannabis use was initiated from curiosity, peer pressure, or treatment dissatisfaction. Continuation was driven by psychotropic effects and symptom coping (mood, insomnia). Over time, users acknowledged negative effects including cognitive dysfunction, worsening mood, and increased anxiety. Concerning patterns included initiation before age 18, mixed medical/recreational use, and rare medical consultation.

Qualitative study with 36 adults diagnosed with mood or anxiety disorders (including OCD and PTSD) who currently use cannabis. In-depth interviews explored motivations, perceptions, effects, and patterns of cannabis use. Thematic analysis applied.

The disconnect between perceived and actual effects is clinically important. Patients reported continuing cannabis for symptom relief even as they recognized it was making things worse, highlighting the complexity of self-medication in mental health populations.

With cannabis legalization increasing access, mental health patients are self-treating at growing rates. The finding that patients recognize harm but continue using underscores the need for proactive clinician engagement rather than waiting for patients to raise the topic.

Small qualitative sample from a single setting. Self-selected cannabis-using patients may not represent non-users with the same diagnoses. Canadian context with legal access may differ from other jurisdictions. Qualitative design captures experiences but not prevalence.