209. Cannabis Psychosis in Youth | Dr. David Rettew

209. Cannabis Psychosis in Youth | Dr. David Rettew

High Truths on Drugs and Addiction

Cannabis Use Disorder and Cannabis Induced Psychosis is a common diagnosis of adolescent psychiatrist. Listen to Dr. David Rettew's tips in diagnosis and how to speak to young people about marijuana. David Rettew, MD is a child & adolescent psychiatrist who currently works as the Medical Director of Lane County Behavioral Health in Eugene, Oregon.  He is also a clinical faculty member in the Psychiatry Department at OHSU.  Before moving to Oregon in 2021, he worked as a tenured associate professor of psychiatry and pediatrics at the University of Vermont Medical Center and was Medical Director of the child and families division of the Vermont Department of Mental Health.  He was also past president of the Vermont Association of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry.  Dr Rettew built and then acted as first Training Director of UVM’s child psychiatry fellowship program.  He is the author of over 60 peer reviewed journal articles on a variety of mental health topics as well as two books, including Parenting Made Complicated: What Science Really Knows About the Greatest Debates of Early Childhood. He has served as the co-chair of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry’s (AACAP) Health Promotion and Prevention committee and was previously on their journal’s (JAACAP’s) editorial board.  Dr. Rettew did his general psychiatry and child & adolescent training at Harvard Medical School within the combined Massachusetts General/McLean Hospital programs.  Dr. Rettew writes a regular blog on Psychology Today that has over one and a half million views.

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1:15:4523 Dec 2024

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Cannabis Psychosis in Youth: Insights from Dr. David Rettew

Episode Overview

  • Cannabis use can significantly increase the risk of developing psychosis, especially in young people.
  • Genetic factors may play a role in both cannabis use and the development of psychotic disorders.
  • Recognising cannabis-induced psychosis is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
  • High-potency cannabis products pose a greater risk for mental health issues.
  • Effective communication with youth about the risks of marijuana can help prevent long-term mental health problems.
Cannabis has the highest conversion rate to permanent mental illness, over 40%, more than methamphetamine or other drugs.

This episode of High Truths on Drugs and Addiction dives into the complex relationship between cannabis use and psychosis in youth. Hosted by Dr. Roneet Lev, an experienced emergency and addiction physician, the episode features Dr. David Rettew, a child and adolescent psychiatrist with extensive experience in the field. Dr. Rettew shares his expertise on Cannabis Use Disorder and Cannabis Induced Psychosis, offering practical tips on diagnosis and communication with young people about marijuana.

The discussion touches on the significant risks associated with cannabis use, particularly among adolescents, and the potential for marijuana to exacerbate or even cause mental health issues such as schizophrenia. Dr. Rettew emphasises the importance of recognising cannabis-induced psychosis and not dismissing its impact on mental health. He also explores the genetic factors that may contribute to both cannabis use and psychotic disorders, making it clear that the relationship is multifaceted.

The episode is filled with valuable insights for parents, healthcare professionals, and anyone interested in understanding the implications of cannabis use in young people. By listening to this episode, you'll gain a deeper understanding of how to approach this sensitive topic with empathy and knowledge, potentially helping to prevent long-term mental health issues in youth.

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