Grant: Cat Grant: Cannabis Research in Urgent Priority Areas-Cannabis and Mental Health

Marginally housed or homeless people are a vulnerable population. Substance use disorders are common in some vulnerable groups, and may include cannabis use disorder. As regulated cannabis becomes available, the possible risks and possible benefits in vulnerable groups need to be understood. These could include changes in mental disorders such as psychosis, depression, and anxiety - all of which are common. There may also be changes in the use of other substances, and the occurrence of substance use disorders. Finally, the severity of physical disorders including chronic pain may also change. The "Hotel Study" is a long-term follow-up project in Vancouver's Downtown Eastside. Participants (approximately 350) are seen every month, and provide information on mental disorders, substance use, and physical health. We will compare findings from the year prior to legalization of cannabis, to the year following legalization. The findings will help identify risk or protective factors than contribute to changes in health in a vulnerable population, related to the legalization of cannabis.