Cannabis use is associated with changes in psychological and functional well-being during young adulthood: evidence from self-reports and hair analyses
Longitudinal analysis shows cannabis use predicts worsening psychopathology and functional well-being in young adults, indicating risk factors for intervention.
Key Points
Frequent cannabis use predicted increases in psychotic symptoms and decreased general well-being from age 20 to 24.
Self-reported cannabis use and hair THC concentrations were both associated with more aggressive behavior and problematic substance use.
Using liquid chromatography, THC concentrations were quantified by hair analyses in a community sample of 863 young adults.
Findings highlight the need for awareness of cannabis risks on mental health and life functioning as young adults transition.
Cite This Study
Johnson‐Ferguson et al. (2025) studied this question.