Study shows decrease in suicide rates among older adults after access to cannabis

A recent study by the National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER) indicates that access to recreational cannabis, through the opening of legalized dispensaries, may be associated with a reduction in suicide rates among middle-aged and older adults in the United States.

The research analyzed state data between 2000 and 2022 and highlights that the positive impact appears after the opening of the stores, not just with the approval of legalization laws. In other words, effective access to regulated products seems to be a central factor in the observed results.

According to Cáñamo website, the decrease in rates was more evident among people aged 45 or older, especially in historically more vulnerable groups, such as adults with lower educational levels and individuals living with chronic pain or persistent health issues.

The researchers did not identify the same effect among younger adults or in states where legalization occurred without the practical implementation of the regulated market. Additionally, the authors emphasize that the study does not establish a direct causal relationship, as the data is analyzed at a population level.

Nevertheless, the study contributes to the debate on cannabis and mental health public policies, suggesting that regulated access models may have relevant social impacts, especially in age groups often overlooked in discussions on the subject.

With information from Cañamo.Net.