Medicinal usage of cannabis and its impact on mental health among cancer patients and survivors

Abstract

Expansions in research and use of cannabis as medical therapy propose new directions for mental health management among cancer patients and survivors. Cancer treatment and side effects pose significant lifestyle changes that leave long-lasting physical and psychological pain, and unresolved pain results in poor adaptation post-treatment and places additional burdens on mental health. To treat physical and psychological pain, cannabis can serve as an alternative or in adjunct to customary treatment; recommendations from oncologist and scientific literature support the increased use of cannabis in cancer treatment but suffer from barriers to access and stigmatization. Sociocultural aspects, racially motivated stigmas, restrictive drug scheduling, and healthcare system limitations impose barriers for expanded use of cannabis in supporting cancer patient mental health. Future directions indicate the need to reschedule cannabis’ federal classification to open prescription access and research avenues to explore potential side effects; cultural awareness and healthcare provider sensitivity and antiracism trainings are indicated to increase access and safe use of medical cannabis among diverse cancer patients.