Weather

86°F9:09 PM

Health

1 read

Recent Studies Question Effectiveness of Marijuana for Mental Health Treatment

KVIA•Monday, March 16, 2026 at 11:30 PM•CNN Newsource

Medical stethoscope representing healthcare news

Want the full story?

Read the complete article at KVIA

AI Summary

Recent analyses published in Lancet Psychiatry reveal that marijuana, including its components CBD and THC, is ineffective for treating mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD. The studies, which reviewed 54 randomized controlled trials, highlighted a concerning trend where medical marijuana is still prescribed despite a lack of evidence supporting its efficacy. Additionally, the rise in marijuana potency poses risks, particularly for vulnerable populations, increasing the likelihood of developing serious mental health issues. Experts recommend alternative treatments like SSRIs and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) as proven methods for addressing mental health concerns.

Key Details: • Studies indicate no effective treatment for anxiety or depression with cannabis. • Growing marijuana potency from 4% in the 1970s to 18-20% today raises addiction risks. • Consider proven treatments such as SSRIs and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). • Resources for finding CBT-trained therapists are available through the American Psychological Association.

marijuana mental-health research addiction therapy

People & Organizations

University of SydneyAmerican Psychological AssociationJack WilsonDeepak Cyril D’SouzaYale Center for the Science of Cannabis and CannabinoidsAssociation for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies

Related Articles

Spain Completes Repatriation of Hantavirus-Affected Cruise Ship MV Hondius

Spain's Health Minister, Mónica García, announced the successful conclusion of the repatriation operation for the MV Hondius, a cruise ship impacted by a hantavirus outbreak. The operation involved evacuating 125 passengers and crew members from 23 different countries, with the ship departing from Granadilla, Tenerife, to the Netherlands. Over the weekend, 94 individuals were evacuated on international flights, with the final flights occurring on Monday. The operation was praised for its safety measures and coordination with the World Health Organization and other health authorities. The ship had been docked near Cape Verde before being accepted into Spain amid significant public debate regarding its reception.

Understanding Hantavirus: Risks and Precautions for El Paso Residents

Hantavirus infections, although uncommon in the U.S., pose serious health risks, particularly for specific groups. The virus is primarily transmitted through contact with rodent droppings, urine, or saliva, making individuals who work in agriculture, cleaning, or those living in rural areas more vulnerable. It's crucial for residents to be aware of the symptoms and take preventive measures, such as maintaining cleanliness in homes and avoiding contact with wild rodents. Awareness and education about hantavirus can help reduce the risk of infection in the community.

Supreme Court Allows Continued Mail Access to Mifepristone Abortion Pill

The U.S. Supreme Court, through Justice Samuel Alito, has issued a temporary extension allowing nationwide access to the abortion pill mifepristone via mail and telehealth consultations. This decision is significant as it ensures that individuals seeking abortion services can continue to obtain the medication without in-person visits, amid ongoing legal challenges surrounding abortion rights. As this is a developing situation, updates may follow that could impact access and regulations surrounding reproductive health services.

Access to Abortion Pills Maintained as Supreme Court Extends Temporary Hold

The availability of abortion pills via mail is secured until at least Thursday due to a temporary pause ordered by Justice Samuel Alito. This decision halts a lower court ruling from the conservative U.S. Court of Appeals for the 5th Circuit, which sought to impose stricter regulations requiring in-person visits to healthcare providers. The ongoing legal battle has significant implications for reproductive rights across the country, affecting countless women who rely on these medications. As the situation develops, those interested should stay informed about potential changes in access.