VW independent/submitted information
COLUMBUS — Youths with mood disorders who use and abuse cannabis (marijuana) have a higher risk for self-harm, death by all causes and death by unintentional overdose and homicide, according to research led by The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and The Ohio State University College of Medicine. Study findings are published in
JAMA Pediatrics.
“Marijuana use and addiction is common among youth and young adults with mood disorders, but the association of this behavior with self-harm, suicide, and overall mortality risk is poorly understood in this already vulnerable population,” said lead author Cynthia Fontanella, an associate professor in the department of psychiatry and behavioral health at Ohio State. “These findings should be considered as states contemplate legalizing medical and recreational marijuana, both of which are associated with increased cannabis use disorder.”