SEATTLE — Over a decade after the legalization of recreational cannabis in Washington, a recent survey indicates that many health professionals are increasingly concerned about the mental health risks associated with cannabis use. Some clinicians report that they are regularly treating patients with cannabis-related health issues.
The findings, published in the Substance Use & Addiction Journal, are based on a 20-question survey conducted between December 2024 and March 2025, involving 388 healthcare providers in Washington state, including doctors and nurses.
Clinicians’ Concerns on Cannabis Use
The survey reveals that more than half of the respondents expressed strong concern regarding the mental health risks of cannabis use, with nearly 20% reporting adverse health events related to cannabis two to three times per month. Beatriz Carlini, the lead author of the study and a research associate professor at the University of Washington School of Medicine, emphasizes that healthcare providers are becoming more aware and concerned about these adverse events.
Interestingly, Carlini notes a lack of prior research focused on clinicians’ experiences with cannabis-related health issues in the United States, indicating a gap in knowledge regarding this topic.
Common Cannabis-Related Conditions
The survey revealed four significant health conditions associated with cannabis use:
- 70% of clinicians treated patients for cannabis hyperemesis syndrome, which includes cycles of nausea and severe vomiting that can lead to dehydration.
- 65% identified patients with cannabis-use disorder, indicating signs of addiction or dependency.
- 63% reported treating patients experiencing anxiety related to cannabis use.
- 53% noted patients with psychosis or hallucinations attributed to cannabis, with 34% classifying psychosis or hallucinations as the most severe cannabis-related adverse event.
Training and Knowledge Gaps
When asked about their knowledge on various cannabis-related clinical topics, most respondents rated themselves as “moderately” knowledgeable. The survey highlighted a noticeable deficit in training: 65.9% reported having little to no knowledge about how cannabis interacts with other medications, and 42.8% expressed limited understanding of cannabis-induced psychoses. Nearly 75% of respondents sought additional training on screening for cannabis use and managing associated health risks.
Respondents also mentioned systemic barriers impeding effective treatment of cannabis-related conditions. Over 80% stated they would be more inclined to screen and intervene if they had established treatment protocols and more referral options available for patients.
Implications for Mississippi’s Cannabis Industry
As Mississippi continues to navigate the evolving cannabis landscape, the findings highlight the need for enhanced training and support for healthcare providers in the state. The ongoing opioid crisis, along with other substance-use challenges, complicates the situation, underscoring a pressing need for expertise in cannabis-related care. While the study did not ascertain whether cannabis-related adverse health effects are increasing in Washington, literature from other regions suggests a likely rise, signaling a potential area of concern for Mississippi as it develops its own cannabis regulations and policies.