New Study Reveals Cannabis’ Mixed Effects on Sleep
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 while cannabis can improve sleep quality for young adults with pre-existing depression or anxiety, it can worsen sleep problems for those without mental health conditions.
The study analyzed data from over 3,300 public high school students in the Los Angeles area, comparing those who use cannabis regularly with those who have never tried it. The results showed that for participants with anxiety or depression, cannabis use was associated with a significant decrease in sleep problems over a six-month period. In contrast, those without anxiety or depression experienced an increase in sleep problems.
The study’s lead author, Claire Walsh, suggests that cannabis may help mask the symptoms of anxiety or depression, which can disrupt sleep. However, this does not necessarily mean that cannabis is treating the underlying mental health condition.
Peter Grinspoon, a physician and Harvard Medical School instructor, notes that people with anxiety or depression may find cannabis more beneficial for sleep because they are more likely to struggle with insomnia. He also suggests that people who use cannabis with the intention of improving their sleep quality may use lower doses, which can reduce the risk of stimulating effects.
The study’s findings are consistent with previous research, which has shown that cannabis can have both positive and negative effects on sleep. While some studies have found that cannabis can improve sleep quality, others have reported that it can exacerbate sleep problems.
Grinspoon also points out that much of the research on cannabis and sleep has been limited by methodological flaws, such as the use of skewed methodologies and the lack of controlled laboratory settings. He suggests that more targeted research is needed to fully understand the effects of cannabis on sleep.
Despite the mixed results, the study’s findings highlight the importance of considering individual factors, such as mental health, when evaluating the effects of cannabis on sleep. As cannabis becomes increasingly legal and widely available, it is essential to continue researching its effects on sleep and overall health.
