The largest review of medicinal cannabis to date found it doesn’t effectively treat anxiety, depression, or PTSD—despite millions using it for those reasons. Researchers warn it could even make mental health worse, raising risks like psychosis and addiction while delaying proven treatments. Some limited benefits were seen for conditions like insomnia and autism, but the evidence is weak. The findings are fueling calls for stricter oversight as cannabis use continues to rise.

The largest review of medicinal cannabis to date found it doesn’t effectively treat anxiety, depression, or PTSD—despite millions using it for those reasons. Researchers warn it could even make mental health worse, raising risks like psychosis and addiction while delaying proven treatments. Some limited benefits were seen for conditions like insomnia and autism, but the evidence is weak. The findings are fueling calls for stricter oversight as cannabis use continues to rise.

Study: https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanpsy/article/PIIS2215-0366(26)00015-5/fulltext

Archived version: https://archive.is/newest/https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/03/260319044656.htm

Disclaimer: The article linked is from a single source with a single perspective. Make sure to cross-check information against multiple sources to get a comprehensive view on the situation.

  • Mothra@mander.xyzEnglish
    1·
    9 days ago

    I can’t read any of the comments you have been replying to here because OP deleted them, but anyway I’m here to applaud you on your explanation right here. It’s so infuriating seeing regular people fall for this over and over again, and no accountability for the media spreading misinformation (intentionally or not). I wish I was as articulate as you though

    • fiat_lux@lemmy.worldEnglish
      3·
      9 days ago

      Hey thanks, I really appreciate that. I assumed nobody would read it, especially after the deletions. It was way longer than I had intended.