Cannabis use during the COVID-19 pandemic: results from a longitudinal study of Cannabis users

Abstract

ABSTRACT Background The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has shifted life in the United States. It is reasonable to expect the challenges of cannabis use in the U.S. are amplified given the vast shutdowns and economic insecurity. The purpose of the research is to examine changes in adult cannabis use during COVID-19. Methods This one-group, longitudinal, cohort study reports results from an online survey and six-month follow-up. Both surveys examined cannabis use and additional questions regarding COVID-19 were added to the follow-up. Quantitative analysis (e.g., ANOVA) was conducted on the questionnaire and thematic analysis was performed on a text question. Results A majority of the sample (65.7%) reported no significant change in cannabis use as a result of COVID-19. A one-way ANOVA of CUDIT-R scores showed statistical significance (p < .01) between age groups. Contrary to the quantitative analysis, thematic analysis revealed many changes in cannabis use as a response to COVID-19. Conclusions Self-efficacy can be seen through the empowered behaviors to change cannabis products but those with an increase in CUDIT-R scores may need targeted assessments and education to promote healthier cannabis use. Additionally, this study calls for a larger examination of changes in cannabis use by age and working conditions.