A survey of 46 budtenders found that 55% rated cannabis as beneficial for mental health, with sleep and depression perceived most favorably, but these views often diverged from scientific evidence.
Cannabis consumers seeking mental health benefits and policymakers considering budtender training requirements.
55% of budtenders rated cannabis as beneficial for mental health, with customers asking about it at 21% of visits
What the researchers found
Budtender perceptions of cannabis and mental health varied by symptom and often diverged from evidence. 54.6% rated cannabis as beneficial overall, with sleep and depression most frequently perceived as beneficial. Customers asked about mental health effects at 21% of visits. Knowledge sources varied considerably, lacking standardization.
Why it matters
Budtenders are a primary information source for cannabis consumers, but this study reveals significant gaps between their perceptions and scientific evidence. Given that 1 in 5 customer visits involve mental health questions, these gaps could influence vulnerable consumers.
The numbers in context
46 budtenders surveyed. 54.6% rated cannabis as beneficial for mental health. Sleep and depression most frequently perceived as beneficial. 21% of customer visits included mental health questions. Considerable variability in knowledge sources.
How the study worked
Cross-sectional survey of 46 budtenders from Ontario Cannabis Stores across the Greater Toronto Area, Canada. Assessed perceptions, education, and customer interactions regarding cannabis and mental health.
What this study cannot tell us
Small sample (46) from one geographic area. Self-reported perceptions may differ from actual advice given. Cross-sectional design. Ontario Cannabis Stores may differ from other retail models.
How to read the evidence
Preliminary: small cross-sectional survey from one region with self-reported data, providing an initial look at a largely unstudied population.
When this study was published
2025 study.
The bigger picture
As cannabis retail expands, budtenders function as informal health advisors despite typically lacking medical or mental health training. This study highlights the need for evidence-based training programs in the cannabis retail sector.
Questions still open
- Would standardized budtender training change customer perceptions and use patterns? Should dispensaries be required to provide evidence-based mental health information? How do budtender recommendations influence consumers with mental health conditions?
Common questions
Should you trust budtender advice about cannabis and mental health?
What mental health conditions did budtenders view most favorably?
Read the original research
Budtender Perceptions and Knowledge of Cannabis and Mental Health: A Preliminary Study.
Cannabis (Albuquerque, N.M.), 8(2), 164-176
Citation
Lowe, Darby J E; Wang, Cindy; Rueda, Sergio; George, Tony P. (2025). Budtender Perceptions and Knowledge of Cannabis and Mental Health: A Preliminary Study.. Cannabis (Albuquerque, N.M.), 8(2), 164-176. https://doi.org/10.26828/cannabis/2025/000292