Summary
A recent study suggests that individuals who use both tobacco and cannabis have higher rates of anxiety and depression compared to those who use only one or neither substance. The study examined data from the COVID-19 Citizens Health Study, which surveyed 53,843 US adults between 2020 and 2022. Among participants, 1.6% reported using both tobacco and cannabis, and they had roughly 1.8 times the likelihood of experiencing anxiety and depression compared to non-users. While the study does not establish causation, it highlights the potential mental health risks associated with the combined use of these substances.
Key Facts
– 1.6% of survey participants reported using both tobacco and cannabis.
– Among co-users, 26.5% reported anxiety and 28.3% reported depression.
– Individuals who used neither tobacco nor cannabis reported anxiety and depression rates of 10.6% and 11.2% respectively.
– Co-use of tobacco and cannabis increased the likelihood of anxiety and depression by about 1.8 times compared to non-users.
Introduction
A study published in PLOS ONE reveals that individuals who use both tobacco and cannabis are more likely to report anxiety and depression than those who use either substance alone or neither substance. The researchers analyzed data from the COVID-19 Citizens Health Study, which collected information on substance use and mental health from over 53,000 US adults between 2020 and 2022. While the study cannot determine causation, it underscores the association between the co-use of tobacco and cannabis and poor mental health.
Study Findings
Among the participants surveyed, 4.9% reported using tobacco only, 6.9% reported using cannabis only, and 1.6% reported co-use of both substances. The co-use group had the highest rates of anxiety (26.5%) and depression (28.3%), while those who used neither tobacco nor cannabis had the lowest rates (10.6% for anxiety and 11.2% for depression). The likelihood of experiencing anxiety and depression was 1.8 times greater for co-users compared to non-users. Additionally, both co-use and cannabis-only use were associated with a higher likelihood of anxiety compared to tobacco-only use.
Conclusion
While the study cannot establish causation, it highlights the correlation between the combined use of tobacco and cannabis and poor mental health outcomes. The authors suggest that integrating mental health support into cessation programs for these substances may help address this link. They emphasize the need for further research to better understand the relationship between substance use and mental health.
Personal Opinion as a Psychiatrist
As a psychiatrist, I find this study to be informative and valuable in shedding light on the potential mental health risks associated with the co-use of tobacco and cannabis. The findings align with previous research that has suggested a connection between substance use and mental health challenges. It is crucial for healthcare professionals to be aware of these risks and to advocate for comprehensive support and treatment options for individuals struggling with both substance use and mental health disorders. This study underscores the need for a holistic approach to healthcare that addresses both substance use and mental well-being.
Dr Elizabeth Thompson, MD, Cure of Mind