A recent survey of nearly 400 clinicians in Washington state revealed significant concerns regarding the mental health risks associated with cannabis use. Over half of the respondents reported observing cannabis-related adverse health events in their patients, with nearly 20% witnessing such incidents two to three times each month. These findings were published in the Substance Use & Addiction Journal, where researchers analyzed responses from 388 healthcare professionals between December 2024 and March 2025. The survey aimed to gather insights on clinical experiences with patients exhibiting health issues related to cannabis use following the drug’s legalization for recreational use in 2012.
Key Findings from the Survey
Lead author Beatriz Carlini, a research associate professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences at the University of Washington School of Medicine, emphasized the significance of these findings. “Healthcare providers are noticing, and concerned about, cannabis adverse events,” she stated. Importantly, the survey highlighted a gap in existing research regarding clinician experiences with cannabis-related health conditions in the United States.
Among the conditions identified by respondents, four were particularly common and worrisome:
- Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome: 70% of clinicians reported treating patients with recurrent nausea and severe vomiting, leading to dehydration and emergency department visits.
- Cannabis-Use Disorder: 65% noted signs of addiction or dependency among patients.
- Anxiety: 63% identified patients experiencing anxiety linked to cannabis use.
- Psychoses or Hallucinations: 53% reported patients experiencing these symptoms, with 34% highlighting this as the most serious concern.
Knowledge Gaps and Training Needs
When asked about their knowledge of cannabis-related clinical topics, the majority of respondents rated their understanding as “moderately.” However, the survey exposed notable training gaps: 65.9% of participants reported limited knowledge about how cannabis interacts with other medications, and 42.8% were unsure about cannabis-induced psychoses. Almost 75% expressed the need for further training on screening for cannabis use and managing its health risks.
Challenges in Treating Cannabis-Related Conditions
Clinicians also identified systemic barriers that hinder effective treatment of cannabis-related conditions. More than 80% indicated they would be more inclined to screen and intervene if established treatment protocols and additional referral options were available.
Carlini pointed out the ongoing shortage of healthcare providers specializing in cannabis-related care. Nationally, many traditional substance-use treatment providers are overwhelmed with patients dealing with opioid, methamphetamine, and alcohol-related disorders, raising concerns that those seeking help for cannabis—often viewed as low-risk—may not receive adequate support.
Implications for Policy and Practice
This study underscores the urgent need for the healthcare system to adapt to the evolving cannabis landscape, characterized by increased potency and accessibility. Carlini noted, “This reflects a system-wide lack of response to a drug that has become more potent and more available.” While the study did not measure the current incidence of cannabis-related health effects in Washington, existing literature suggests these issues are likely on the rise.
The relevance of this survey extends beyond Washington, impacting states like Mississippi, where the cannabis industry is developing amid new legislation and regulation. As the cannabis market expands, it is crucial for healthcare providers to be equipped with the necessary training and resources to address the potential health impacts associated with its use.