What people who smoke a lot of weed have in common with psychosis patients: study

New York Post - Apr 22nd, 2025
Open on New York Post

A new study published in JAMA Psychiatry has identified significant alterations in brain activity among individuals with cannabis use disorder (CUD), a condition where excessive marijuana use causes life impairment. The research revealed increased dopamine-related signals in midbrain regions of heavy cannabis users, which resemble patterns observed in psychosis. This was especially pronounced in users with more severe CUD, indicating a dose-related effect. The study focused on individuals aged 18 to 35 and highlights potential mental health risks associated with heavy cannabis consumption, especially for those with a family history of psychosis.

These findings are particularly significant amidst the broader context of marijuana legalization, such as in New York, where the number of legal cannabis shops is expected to double. Despite the perception of cannabis as a 'safer' drug, recent studies have associated its use with increased risks of psychosis, cancer, and accelerated aging. The study leader, Jessica Ahrens of McGill University, emphasizes the need for awareness about these risks, particularly among vulnerable populations. The difficulty in conducting comprehensive studies due to cannabis's Schedule 1 classification further complicates the understanding of its full impact.

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RATING

5.8
Moderately Fair
Read with skepticism

The story effectively presents the findings of a recent study on the neurological impacts of cannabis use, providing valuable insights into the potential risks associated with heavy consumption. Its strengths lie in addressing a timely and relevant topic with implications for public health and policy. However, the article's credibility is somewhat undermined by the lack of balance and transparency, as it introduces broader claims without sufficient evidence or diverse perspectives. This limits its ability to fully inform readers, who may seek additional information to form a comprehensive understanding of cannabis use and its health effects. Overall, the story contributes to the ongoing discourse on cannabis but could benefit from more rigorous sourcing and balanced reporting to enhance its reliability and impact.

RATING DETAILS

7
Accuracy

The story presents several factual claims, primarily focusing on a study published in JAMA Psychiatry about cannabis use disorder (CUD) and its neurological impacts. The core scientific findings reported in the story are accurate, as the study indeed found altered dopamine activity in the brains of heavy cannabis users, resembling patterns observed in psychosis. However, some claims, such as the increase in ER visits among seniors and the assertion that cannabis use leads to a higher risk of dementia, are not directly supported by the study and require additional verification. The story accurately cites the study's findings on dopamine activity and its implications for psychosis risk, but it introduces broader claims about cannabis-related health risks and societal impacts without direct evidence from the study.

5
Balance

The story predominantly highlights the negative aspects of cannabis use, particularly focusing on its potential to alter brain activity and increase psychosis risk. While it provides valuable insights into the neurological implications of heavy cannabis use, it lacks a balanced perspective by not discussing any potential benefits or therapeutic uses of cannabis, which are relevant in the context of its legalization. The narrative could have been more balanced by including viewpoints from experts who might argue for the controlled use of cannabis or discuss its medical benefits, thereby offering readers a more comprehensive understanding of the topic.

7
Clarity

The story is generally clear in its presentation of the study's findings, using straightforward language to describe the complex topic of dopamine activity and its implications for psychosis risk. The structure is logical, progressing from the study's findings to broader implications for cannabis use. However, the inclusion of unrelated claims about ER visits and societal impacts without clear transitions or supporting evidence can confuse readers. The tone remains neutral, although the lack of clarity in differentiating between verified study findings and broader claims slightly undermines overall comprehension.

6
Source quality

The primary source for the story is a study published in JAMA Psychiatry, a reputable and authoritative source in the field of psychiatry. However, the story does not cite additional sources or expert opinions that could strengthen its claims, especially those not directly supported by the study, such as the increase in ER visits among seniors and the societal impacts of cannabis legalization. The lack of diverse sources and expert commentary limits the depth and reliability of the reporting, as it relies heavily on a single study to support a wide array of claims.

4
Transparency

The story lacks transparency regarding the basis for some of its claims, particularly those related to the societal impacts of cannabis use and its health risks beyond the neurological findings of the study. It does not provide sufficient context or methodology details about the cited study, such as sample size or specific measures used to assess dopamine activity. Additionally, the story does not disclose any potential conflicts of interest or biases that might affect the interpretation of the study's findings, which is essential for maintaining transparency in reporting.

Sources

  1. https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamapsychiatry/fullarticle/2832297
  2. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40202728/?fc=20230109113555&ff=20250415065257&v=2.18.0.post9+e462414
  3. https://www.psypost.org/scientists-find-overlapping-dopamine-activity-in-cannabis-use-disorder-and-psychosis/
  4. https://news.westernu.ca/2025/04/cannabis-psychosis/
  5. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/04/250409154851.htm