ROLE OF CANNABIS IN PSYCHIATRIC ILLNESSES: A MINI-LITERATURE REVIEW

Cannabis is one of the most abused illicit drug in the United States. Currently, nine states and D.C has legalized marijuana for recreational use, which will only lead to increased use. About 20% of adolescents report using cannabis at least once per week. Its increased used particularly in individuals below 25 years can affect brain development. Multiple surveys and studies have shown a connection between cannabis use and its harmful effects on human health particularly mental health. Whether cannabis use increases the incidence of psychiatric disorders such as mood or psychotic disorders or exacerbates the already established diseases, in either case, both of them are the cause of substantial distress for individuals and their families, also to public burden from health-care costs. In this paper, we have mentioned some psychiatric illnesses which directly or indirectly are associated with cannabis use. The objective of this study is to offer an up-to-date overview of cannabis use and its effects on mental health. This study would contribute to increased knowledge and improved awareness among people towards cannabis use to discourage its further use to enhance the quality of life, thus eliminating its harmful effects. Whether cannabis use is the direct cause of mental health issues or one of the factors associated with it, is still an open question requiring further research and studies.