A recent study from Dr. Lena Palaniyappan sheds light on a biological mechanism linking frequent cannabis use to an increased risk of psychosis.
The researchers found that individuals with cannabis use disorder (CUD) show abnormal activity in the brain’s dopamine system.
Although it was already known that cannabis affects dopamine levels, this study pinpoints the specific areas of the brain where these changes take place. Cannabis use disorder is characterized by a loss of control over cannabis consumption, continued use despite harmful consequences, and symptoms such as cravings or withdrawal.
With almost one in five young people in Canada using cannabis regularly, these results underline the need for prevention and better education about the impact of this substance on mental health.
Our findings could help doctors and mental health professionals better educate patients about the potential risks of frequent cannabis use, especially for those with a family history of psychosis.
– Dr. Lena Palaniyappan, Professor of Psychiatry at McGill and researcher at the Douglas Research Centre