Marijuana may help combat substance abuse, mental health disorders
Contrary to research that suggests marijuana may act as a gateway drug, encouraging the use of other harmful substances, a new study indicates it may have the opposite effect.
Marijuana may be an effective 'exit drug'
The researchers came to their conclusion after conducting a systematic review of 60 studies assessing the effects of either medical or non-medical marijuana on mental health and substance abuse.
The analysis revealed that medical marijuana shows potential for treating symptoms of PTSD, depression, and social anxiety.
"Research suggests that people may be using cannabis as an exit drug to reduce the use of substances that are potentially more harmful, such as opioid pain medication," Zach Walsh, an associate professor of psychology at the University of British Colu...