A recent pilot study from UBC Okanagan and Thompson Rivers University indicates that medical cannabis may play a beneficial role in supporting addiction recovery. The research focused on medically supervised cannabis use within a residential recovery home, aiming to help individuals facing substance use challenges.
Participants in the study reported that cannabis was effective in managing various symptoms, including pain, anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances. These symptoms can often complicate the recovery process. Dr. Zach Walsh, a psychology professor at UBC Okanagan and one of the study’s co-lead researchers, stated that the findings suggest medical cannabis could significantly reduce cravings and improve retention in recovery programs.
Users noted decreased cravings for opioids and other harmful substances, along with better pain management, mental health improvements, and enhanced sleep quality. However, the study also highlighted stigma surrounding cannabis use as a major barrier to its acceptance in recovery settings.
Interviews with staff revealed a need for more education and better integration of cannabis into treatment approaches. According to Dr. Florriann Fehr, nursing professor at Thompson Rivers University and co-lead researcher, addressing staff skepticism through targeted education is crucial. She emphasized that misunderstandings about cannabis as a legitimate medical treatment present an opportunity for improvement in recovery support.
The study, which was published in the Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs, involved collaboration between UBC Okanagan and Thompson Rivers University. It specifically looked at experiences within Maverick Supportive Recovery, a residential centre located in the British Columbia interior.
While the results are promising, researchers stressed the importance of conducting larger-scale studies to thoroughly evaluate the benefits and risks associated with incorporating medical cannabis into substance use recovery programs. Funding for this study was provided by the Interior Universities Research Coalition and the BC Ministry of Health.
Dr. Fehr is scheduled to present the findings at the International Council of Nurses Congress in Helsinki this June. Additionally, Thompson Rivers University will host the Medical Cannabis and Recovery forum on April 26, open to the public, healthcare professionals, and researchers interested in cannabis-related recovery solutions.
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