Aims

In this project, we explore how we help and communicate public health information about cannabis to youth (18-25 years) with frequent cannabis use, who do not seek formal drug treatment. The project will inform us on an important population that is underexplored, while developing public health content on cannabis use that is adapted to cannabis positive subcultures.  

Background

Cannabis use is increasingly normalized, with indications that cannabis is becoming more harmless in public perception, in tandem with the rapid global shifts towards legalizing medical and/or recreational cannabis use. Parallel to this development, cannabis is likely becoming more harmful to health and wellbeing, due to a significant increase in the level of the psychoactive substance THC in cannabis sold in Denmark. This increase is highly concerning, as higher THC levels are linked to cognitive impairment, addiction and psychosis, particularly among youth who are more vulnerable to THC exposure. Even though cannabis use dominates youth drug treatment, most youth with frequent cannabis use do not seek help. Current efforts focus on communicating alcohol and cigarette harm to youth, but communicating cannabis-related risks to youth with frequent cannabis use should also be prioritized.

The study

Through 20 interviews with non-treatment seeking youth (18-25 years) with frequent cannabis use, we explore perceptions and interpretations of public health materials, as well as possible barriers to sharing the material, risk perceptions of cannabis use, knowledge of and attitude towards drug treatment and preferences for support and help. Based on the scientific literature, we prepare material focused on two themes; 1) the increase in THC and consequences when using cannabis with high THC cannabis, 2) a "Do-It-Yourself" guide to stop or reduce the use of cannabis, with a description of and guidance through the first 30 days of cannabis abstinence. To ensure that the material is attractive and relevant, young people from the target group are involved in testing the material through qualitative interviews. The material is subsequently disseminated in cannabis-positive subcultures.

The project runs from September 2021 to June 2025.

Funding

The project is funded by Helsefonden.