In recent years, the world has seen a notable increase in the simultaneous use of cannabis and tobacco, a phenomenon known as “joint use.” But what does this trend mean for mental health? A new study sheds light on the hidden risks of this combination, especially for those already at risk of developing psychotic disorders.
Psychological and Physical Effects of Joint Use
Evidence suggests that combining tobacco and cannabis can amplify the negative psychological effects of each. Tobacco enhances the body’s absorption of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis. This increased absorption can lead to more pronounced changes in brain chemistry, heightening the risk of psychotic disorders.
In addition to psychological effects, joint use is linked to a higher risk of cardiovascular diseases, which are major contributors to reduced life expectancy among individuals with psychosis who use tobacco.
Study on High-Risk Groups
The study focused on a group of young people and teenagers considered to be at “clinical high risk” for developing psychosis. More than 1,000 participants in this category were tracked, and the study found that those who frequently used cannabis and regularly smoked tobacco were three times more likely to develop psychotic disorders compared to those who did not use either substance.
This increased risk is due to the chemical interaction between the active compounds in both tobacco and cannabis, which enhances negative psychological and physical effects.
Long-Term vs. Short-Term Effects
While the solo use of either tobacco or cannabis can cause short-term psychological symptoms such as anxiety and depression, combining the two leads to more severe long-term effects. Although psychological symptoms may not appear immediately, they accumulate over time, increasing the risk of developing full-blown psychotic disorders.
These findings highlight the importance of educating young people and teenagers about the potential risks of joint use and the need to consider strategies to reduce these practices.
Conclusion
This study indicates that the joint use of cannabis and tobacco poses a significant threat to mental health, particularly for those already at clinical high risk for psychosis. There is a crucial need for increased awareness of these risks among healthcare professionals and the community at large, and for developing strategies to reduce these harmful practices. Quitting these habits can improve mental health and reduce the risk of developing psychotic disorders.