Most Youth with Mood Disorders Believe Cannabis and CBD Treat Mental Health, Despite Lack of Evidence

In a multisite survey of 84 youth and 66 parents across six mood disorder clinics, 76% of youth and 65% of parents believed cannabis is safe and effective for mental health conditions. Similar numbers endorsed CBD. Both groups believed regular use reduces depression, anxiety, and suicidal behaviors. Among youth, male sex and positive cannabis expectancies were associated with higher use intentions. Intergenerational differences in attitudes were observed, with some varying by state cannabis law status.

Multisite cross-sectional survey of 84 youth receiving mood disorder treatment and 66 parents across six child mood clinics in 11 US states with variable cannabis laws. Anonymous surveys assessed attitudes, health perceptions, and behaviors related to cannabis and CBD. Covariate-adjusted regressions examined respondent group and state law as between-subject factors.

Youth with mood disorders are at elevated risk for both cannabis use and cannabis-related adverse outcomes. The finding that most of these vulnerable patients already believe cannabis treats their conditions suggests they may self-medicate based on these beliefs, potentially interfering with evidence-based treatment.

The gap between public perception (cannabis helps mental health) and clinical evidence (limited and mixed) is particularly concerning in a treatment-seeking population. If patients believe cannabis is treating their condition, they may be less adherent to prescribed therapies.

Small sample from specialized mood clinics; may not generalize. Self-report attitudes may not predict behavior. Cross-sectional design. Treatment-seeking youth may differ from non-treatment-seeking peers. Cannot assess whether beliefs are influenced by personal experience or external information.