A recent study examining the vaping habits of nearly 70,000 teenagers has found a troubling link between cannabis vaping and mental health issues, including depression and anxiety. The research, led by PhD candidate Jack Chung from the University of Queensland’s National Centre for Youth Substance Use Research, reveals that nearly 50 percent of teens who vaped cannabis reported experiencing depressive symptoms, compared to just 24.8 percent of those who did not vape.
The study analysed data from the US National Youth Tobacco Survey collected over a three-year period from 2021 to 2023. It focused on the mental health impacts of two primary cannabis compounds: tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), known for its psychoactive effects, and cannabidiol (CBD), which is often used for medicinal purposes and does not produce a high. Chung noted the lack of research differentiating between these compounds and their specific associations with mental health in adolescents.
Chung stated, “We found adolescents who mainly vaped THC were 1.4 times more likely to experience depressive symptoms, while those who vaped CBD were 1.7 times more likely to experience anxiety symptoms.” He emphasized the significance of these findings, particularly given the critical period of brain development during adolescence.
Despite the popular perception that CBD can alleviate anxiety, the study’s results suggest otherwise for young users. “We were expecting to find people who vaped CBD would have a lower likelihood of anxiety, but we found the opposite for adolescents,” Chung added. This discrepancy underscores a pressing need for enhanced education regarding the risks associated with teenage vaping and the potential health implications of unregulated cannabis use.
Concerns Over Underage Vaping Trends
Associate Professor Gary Chung Kai Chan highlighted the emerging trends in underage vaping in Australia, noting the increasing availability of cannabis vaping products. “In Australia, we’re seeing more cannabis vaping products on the market, including devices disguised as everyday items such as pens and lip gloss,” he explained. This concealment raises concerns about the frequency of use among teenagers, often without the knowledge of parents or educators.
As cannabis products continue to evolve, it is crucial for researchers, clinicians, and policymakers to monitor these trends closely. The long-term effects of various cannabis products on young people’s mental health remain largely uncharted territory, prompting calls for further investigation.
Chung advocates for more longitudinal studies to clarify the causal relationship between cannabis vaping and mental health issues. “We need to investigate whether vaping cannabis is causing increased depressive and anxiety symptoms, or whether individuals with these conditions are more likely to vape,” he stated.
The findings of this study are published in the journal Addiction, contributing to the ongoing conversation about the mental health impacts of cannabis use among adolescents. As the landscape of cannabis products shifts, it is imperative to prioritize the health and well-being of young people navigating these complex choices.
