A recent pilot study conducted by researchers from UBC Okanagan and Thompson Rivers University has shed light on the potential benefits of medically supervised cannabis use in supporting individuals undergoing treatment for substance use challenges. Published in the Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs, the study focused on how cannabis use within a residential recovery setting could help individuals manage pain, anxiety, depression, and sleep issues, all of which are common obstacles in the recovery process.
Participants in the study reported that cannabis helped them alleviate symptoms, reduce cravings for harmful substances, improve pain management, and enhance mental health and sleep quality. Dr. Zach Walsh, a psychology professor at UBC Okanagan and co-lead researcher of the study, emphasized the positive impact of medical cannabis in reducing cravings and improving retention in recovery programs. However, the study also highlighted the existing stigma surrounding cannabis use as a barrier to its integration into recovery programs.
According to Dr. Florriann Fehr, co-lead researcher and nursing professor at Thompson Rivers University, addressing stigma through education for program staff is crucial in promoting the acceptance of cannabis as a legitimate medical treatment. The study underscored the need for increased education and better integration of cannabis treatment approaches within recovery programs.
The research was conducted at Maverick Supportive Recovery, a residential recovery center in the BC interior, to understand patient and staff experiences with medically supervised cannabis use. While the results of the pilot study are promising, the researchers emphasized the importance of conducting larger-scale studies to fully evaluate the benefits and risks of incorporating medical cannabis into substance use recovery programs.
For more information, the study titled “Medical Cannabis Use Adjunct to Standard of Care in a Residential Substance Use Recovery Program: A Pilot Study” can be accessed in the Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs. The collaboration between UBC Okanagan and Thompson Rivers University highlights the potential of medical cannabis in supporting individuals in recovery and calls for further research to explore its efficacy in a broader context.
This insightful pilot study opens up new possibilities for integrating medical cannabis into substance use recovery programs and underscores the importance of addressing stigma and increasing education to maximize its benefits. Stay informed about the latest developments in the field of medical cannabis and its potential impact on recovery support.
