Addressing potential negative impacts from cannabis legalization: Clinical utility of a brief self-directed intervention for cannabis misuse
Hodgins, D. C., Schluter, M. G., Stea, J. N., & Kilborn, M. L.
This study tested the effectiveness of a self-help intervention for people with problematic cannabis use who want to recover with minimal professional support. Researchers used a three-arm randomized control trial to compare the efficacy of a self-directed treatment workbook alone and in combination with a brief motivational intervention in its ability to reduce problematic cannabis use and associated problems. The two intervention groups were compared against each other and against a waitlist control group. Participants completed a follow-up assessment three months and six months after the baseline assessment. Results showed that the workbook plus motivational interview helped to improve rates of abstinence and reduce the frequency and quantity of cannabis use compared to both the workbook alone and waitlist control group. However, there was no significant difference between groups when considering quality of life, psychological distress, cannabis-related problems, the perceived helpfulness of the workbook, or how often the workbook was used at either 3-months or 6-months.
Researchers suggest that a stepped-care approach may enhance the provision of treatment for cannabis use disorder (CUD) by providing individuals with the opportunity to choose a level of intervention and treatment that is consistent with their goals and preferences. The workbook package tested in this study is sensitive to individual treatment goals, whether abstinence or controlled use, and can attract individuals who wish to recover with minimal professional support. Therefore, health-focused regulation is needed to reduce cannabis-related harms, and the provision of self-directed interventions can fill an important need for those who do not seek formal treatment for CUD.
Publications:
Schluter, M. G., Hodgins, D. C., Stea, J. N., & Kilborn, M. L. (2022). Promoting self-change in cannabis use disorder: Findings from a randomized trial. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 13. Article 1015443. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyt.2022.1015443