Medical cannabis could speed recovery, especially at community recovery homes, pilot study indicates

A recent pilot study conducted by UBC Okanagan and Thompson Rivers University delved into the potential benefits of medically supervised cannabis use in a residential recovery home for individuals facing substance use challenges.

Published in the Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs, the study revealed that participants found cannabis to be helpful in managing symptoms such as pain, anxiety, depression, and sleep issues, all of which can complicate the recovery process. Dr. Zach Walsh, a psychology professor at UBC Okanagan and co-lead researcher, noted that the findings suggest medical cannabis could play a significant role in reducing cravings and improving retention in recovery programs.

Participants reported experiencing reduced cravings for opioids and other harmful substances, improved pain management, and enhanced mental health and sleep quality. However, the study highlighted that stigma surrounding cannabis use remains a significant barrier, with staff members expressing a need for increased education and better integration of cannabis treatment approaches.

Dr. Florriann Fehr, co-lead researcher and nursing professor at Thompson Rivers University, emphasized the importance of reducing stigma through targeted education for program staff. Addressing staff skepticism and misunderstandings about cannabis as a legitimate medical treatment is crucial for enhancing recovery support.

The study, conducted at Maverick Supportive Recovery, a residential recovery center in the BC interior, aimed to better understand patient and staff experiences with medically supervised cannabis use in a supportive recovery environment. While the results are promising, researchers stress the need for larger-scale studies to fully assess 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 found in the Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs. This collaborative research from institutions in Kelowna and Kamloops sheds light on the potential of medical cannabis in supporting individuals undergoing substance use recovery.

Overall, the study underscores the importance of exploring alternative treatment options, such as medically supervised cannabis use, to enhance recovery outcomes for individuals struggling with substance use challenges. Further research and education are essential in destigmatizing cannabis use and integrating it effectively into recovery programs.

This article was originally published on the University of British Columbia’s website. For more details and insights from the study, readers are encouraged to refer to the original publication.