Suicide and cannabis use among youth & young adults.

In their complementary presentations, Drs. Hammond and Hinckley discuss the association between cannabis use and suicide-related outcomes among youth and young adults. Dr. Hammond presents findings from a study that used 20 years of national mortality data to examine the impact of medical and recreational cannabis legalization on suicide-related mortality among US 12-to-25-year-olds, focusing on variations by age, sex, race, and ethnicity. These findings are discussed within the context of current medical literature on cannabis policy effects and health disparities, with an emphasis on mechanisms, vulnerable
subgroups, and legislative reform. Dr. Hinckley presents data from a secondary analysis of the National Comorbidity Survey-Adolescent Supplement, involving youth aged 13-18. This study explores the association between cannabis use, major depressive disorder, and suicidal behavior. Findings are considered within existing literature to further understand how cannabis use and depression together may increase suicide risk among youth.