Webinar | Marijuana’s Impact on Mental Health, Cognition, and Addiction Treatment
This session provides a comprehensive analysis of the biological and psychological impacts of modern cannabis use. Participants will review the shifting trends in THC potency—noting that modern concentrates often exceed 90% THC—and the subsequent rise in emergency department visits and Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS).
The presentation delves into the Endocannabinoid System (ECS), illustrating how chronic over-activation leads to “dopamine blunting” and anhedonia, which can act as a “prime” for more potent substance use. Clinical barriers to treatment are highlighted, including the “slow leak” of a motivational syndrome and the high risk of relapses for those using marijuana during recovery from other substances. The session concludes with practical, non-judgmental therapeutic strategies to foster motivation, address cognitive limitations, and implement skill-building exercises for sustained change.
Learning Objectives
By the end of this presentation, participants will be able to:
- Analyze the Relationship Between Potency and Mental Health: Identify how high-potency THC and concentrates (oils, waxes, dabs) correlate with increased risks for schizophrenia, mania, and suicidal ideation.
- Evaluate Neurobiological Impact via SPECT Imaging: Explain how regular cannabis use affects brain blood flow and perfusion, particularly in the hippocampus, and its implications for memory and long-term cognitive health.
- Identify Clinical Indicators of Dependence: Recognize the symptoms of Cannabis Use Disorder (CUD) and physical complications like Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS).
- Assess the Risks of “California Sober” Recovery: Understand the statistical correlation showing that individuals using marijuana during recovery are 5 times more likely to relapse into their primary drug of choice.
- Implement Evidence-Based Interventions: Utilize components of the 9-session BMDC guide, including Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), to address resistance and build refusal skills.
Presenters
SAUL SELBY | MA, LADC
Senior Vice President of Clinical Services, Mn Adult & Teen Challenge
Tim Walsh | MA, LP, DPA
Executive Director, Beauterre of EOSIS
