Experts say cannabis does not treat anxiety, depression or PTSD
Updated
Updated · Psychology Today · Apr 29
Experts say cannabis does not treat anxiety, depression or PTSD
8 articles · Updated · Psychology Today · Apr 29
A 2026 Lancet Psychiatry review found no evidence any cannabis form effectively treats those conditions, while higher THC doses were linked to more anxiety and panic.
Experts said any low-dose benefits appear temporary, and frequent or high-THC use may worsen depression and raise psychosis risks, especially in young adults.
They advise against cannabis as a primary mental health treatment, warning it can delay more effective therapies and should be considered only with professional medical guidance.
Experts warn cannabis can worsen anxiety, so why are millions turning to it for relief instead of proven medical treatments?
As THC potency in legal cannabis soars, what are the hidden neurological risks for the developing brains of young adults?
Landmark 2025 Meta-Analysis Finds No Evidence Supporting Medicinal Cannabis for Anxiety, Depression, or PTSD
Overview
A comprehensive 2025 meta-analysis found no evidence that medicinal cannabis effectively treats anxiety, depression, or PTSD, while also revealing increased risks of adverse effects. Earlier guidelines and a 2023 VA/DoD clinical guideline strongly recommend against cannabis use for PTSD due to these harms and a lack of well-designed studies. Rising THC potency worsens mental health risks by disrupting brain systems and increasing psychosis and addiction. PTSD symptoms often lead to cannabis self-medication, which can cause cannabis use disorder and hinder recovery. Despite this, over 36 U.S. states authorize cannabis for PTSD, driven by advocacy and industry influence, creating a gap between policy and science. Evidence-based therapies and abstinence support remain the best path forward.