New Study Reveals Cannabis Can Help Young Adults with Depression or Anxiety Sleep Better, But Not for Everyone
A recent study published in the journal Addiction has shed light on the complex relationship between cannabis and sleep. Researchers from the University of Southern California’s Keck School of Medicine found that for young adults with pre-existing depression or anxiety, cannabis use can improve sleep quality. However, for those without mental health conditions, cannabis can actually worsen sleep problems.
The study analyzed data from over 3,300 public high school students in the Los Angeles area, comparing those who used cannabis regularly with those who had never tried it. The researchers used a 16-point scoring system to assess sleep problems and found that participants with anxiety or depression experienced a significant decrease in sleep problems over a six-month period, while those without mental health conditions saw an increase in sleep problems.
Lead author Claire Walsh, a PhD student in behavioral health, suggests that THC may help mask the symptoms of anxiety or depression, which can negatively impact sleep. However, this does not necessarily mean that cannabis is treating the underlying mental health condition.
Other experts, such as physician and Harvard Medical School instructor Peter Grinspoon, believe that people with anxiety or depression may find cannabis more beneficial for sleep because they are more likely to struggle with insomnia in the first place. Grinspoon also notes that people who use cannabis with the intention of improving their sleep quality may use lower doses and different methods of consumption, which could affect the results.
The study’s findings are in line with recent research showing that cannabis can have a positive impact on sleep quality for certain individuals. For example, a study published earlier this year found that patients in the UK who used vaporized cannabis to treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) experienced significant sleep improvements over a six-month period.
However, cannabis use still comes with risks, including the potential for dependence and withdrawal symptoms when quitting. Additionally, cannabis can reduce the amount of time spent in rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, which could have implications for overall sleep quality.
Despite these risks, the study’s findings suggest that cannabis may be a viable option for young adults with depression or anxiety who struggle with sleep. However, more research is needed to fully understand the complex relationship between cannabis and sleep, and to determine the best methods of use for different individuals.
