Cannabis and mental health: what the science says

Several epidemiological studies converge: early, frequent and prolonged use of cannabis with a high THC content increases the risk of anxiety and depressive disorders, or more rarely psychotic disorders, particularly in people with a personal or family history. This association should not be confused with automatic causality: genetic, social and environmental factors act together, and the majority of cannabis users do not develop any psychiatric disorder. The link is nonetheless recognised by health authorities, including the Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale (Inserm).

This risk concerns mainly recreational use of cannabis with a high THC content, very different from the legal CBD products sold in France, whose THC content is capped at 0.30% in the finished product.

CBD has no psychoactive effect and does not activate CB1 receptors in the same way as THC. Small-scale clinical trials suggest an interesting signal in certain situations of acute anxiety, as our article on CBD and occasional anxiety sets out. That signal nonetheless remains limited and does not allow any brand to claim that CBD treats a mental health disorder: French regulation formally prohibits this.

Adolescents and young adults, whose brains are still developing until around the age of 25, remain the group most exposed to the risk associated with THC. People with a personal or family history of psychiatric disorders, notably schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, also show an increased vulnerability documented in the scientific literature. For these groups, caution applies to CBD as well, in the absence of sufficient long-term data.

CBD never replaces medical advice. Overwhelming anxiety, chronic sleep problems, dark thoughts or growing social avoidance warrant a consultation with a GP or a psychologist. Since 2024, the "Mon soutien psy" scheme has provided access to psychologist sessions partly reimbursed by Assurance maladie, on referral from the GP.

Can CBD cause psychological disorders?

CBD has no psychoactive effect and is not associated, in the current literature, with the same risk as THC. Data are lacking, however, to assert complete long-term safety, particularly in vulnerable people.

Does THC really increase the risk of mental disorders?

Heavy and early use is associated with an increased risk in vulnerable people, according to several epidemiological studies. This link concerns recreational use with a high THC content, not the legal CBD products sold in France.

Can you take CBD while on psychiatric treatment?

Not without medical advice. CBD interacts with certain liver enzymes that metabolise psychotropic drugs, which can alter their effects. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice before combining them.

Is there a recommended minimum age for CBD?

Wellbeing CBD products are not advised for minors, whose nervous system is still developing. No serious brand targets this group.