Understanding how cannabis use affects depression and suicidal thoughts in adolescents
Characterizing Proximal Risk for Depressive Symptoms and Suicidal Ideation with Acute Cannabis Use and Withdrawal Among Adolescents Using Ecological Momentary Assessment
This study is looking at how using cannabis might affect feelings of sadness and thoughts about suicide in teens aged 12 to 18, by checking in with them through their smartphones over two weeks to see how their mood changes with their cannabis use.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11123455 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between cannabis use and the emergence of depressive symptoms and suicidal ideation among adolescents aged 12 to 18. By using real-time smartphone monitoring, the study aims to capture how changes in cannabis use impact mood and suicidal thoughts over short periods. Participants will be monitored for two weeks while they continue their usual cannabis use, allowing researchers to analyze the effects of intoxication and withdrawal on their mental health. The goal is to identify critical moments when adolescents are at higher risk for negative mood changes and suicidal thoughts, which can inform better treatment strategies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents aged 12 to 18 who use cannabis daily or nearly every day and are experiencing current depression and suicidal thoughts.
Not a fit: Patients who do not use cannabis or who are not experiencing depressive symptoms or suicidal thoughts may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for adolescents struggling with depression and suicidal thoughts related to cannabis use.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown significant associations between cannabis use and mental health issues in adolescents, but this study aims to explore these relationships in a novel, real-time context.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Massachusetts General Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Schuster, Randi Melissa — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Schuster, Randi Melissa
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.