An Exploration of Self-Reported Medicinal Cannabis Use Among a Sample of Eastern Canadian Postsecondary Students

AbstractIn October 2018, prior to the legalization of cannabis in Canada, a survey was completed by 1050 Memorial University of Newfoundland students. Both descriptive quantitative and thematic qualitative data analyzes were used. Approximately 16% of the sample reported ever using cannabis for medicinal purposes (n=175), with only 16.6% of medicinal users reporting authorization by a healthcare provider (HCP). The majority (80.2%) were aware of possible side effects of cannabis. Prior personal experience (65.3%) and peer influence (59.5%) informed participants ’ medicinal use. Approximately 40% reported having replaced/reduced prescribed medication. Roughly 60% of medicinal users had not disclosed their use to their HCP. Consistent with previous studies, medicinal cannabis use among postsecondary students appears to be largely motivated for mental healt h related conditions and is grounded in personal experience versus evidence-based guidelines. There is a need for increased communication between HCPs and patients to promote lower-risk use among medicinal cannabis users.
Source: The Journal of Behavioral Health Services and Research - Category: Psychiatry & Psychology Source Type: research