Study Reveals Link Between Cannabis, Alcohol Use and Depression in College Students

A recent study published in the Journal of Cannabis Research has identified a positive association between the co-use of cannabis and alcohol and increased depression among college students. This cross-sectional survey, focusing on simultaneous cannabis and alcohol (SCA) use, highlights the mental health outcomes for both male and female students. The researchers emphasized the need for further studies to explore the connection between substance use and mental health issues like depression, anxiety, and stress in this demographic. Given the potential implications for clinical interventions, the study offers important insights into the mental health treatment needs of young adults

The study surveyed 367 college students aged 18 to 25, predominantly from a university psychology student research pool in Colorado. With 245 female and 122 male participants, the survey collected data on monthly SCA use and its correlation with symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress. To assess alcohol consumption, researchers utilized the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT), while cannabis use was measured using the Daily Sessions, Frequency, Age of Onset, and Quantity of Cannabis Use Inventory. Participants were categorized based on their frequency of SCA use, providing a framework for analyzing the mental health impacts of substance co-use

Findings from the study showed a significant positive association between monthly SCA use and depression, although the study's sample size was insufficient to conclusively determine sex-based differences in stress and anxiety outcomes. The researchers noted that even with increased sample simulations, the power to detect sex differences in depression was not improved, suggesting that such differences may not exist. This limitation, along with the survey's narrow demographic focus, restricts the generalizability of the results, highlighting the need for broader studies with more diverse participant pools

The implications of these findings are significant, particularly for mental health providers working with college students. The researchers recommend that providers consider incorporating detailed assessments of alcohol and cannabis co-use into their practice, as SCA use could serve as a crucial intervention target. Programs aimed at preventing depression could be especially beneficial for male students, who may be more susceptible to the mental health impacts of substance co-use. This insight underscores the importance of tailored prevention and treatment strategies in addressing the mental health needs of young adults

Looking forward, the study authors advocate for future research to include more representative sample populations and to employ longitudinal designs. Such approaches would provide a more comprehensive understanding of the long-term effects of SCA use on mental health. By deepening the assessment of substance co-use, future studies could better inform prevention and mental health promotion efforts. This ongoing research is vital for developing effective interventions and enhancing the well-being of college students navigating the challenges of substance use and mental health