Cannabis to cope with COVID-19 in college
Year: 2023
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Cannabis use in college students has increased over time and is linked to negative consequences. During the COVID-19 pandemic, many students experienced greater stress, which could heighten cannabis use and related consequences. This study was designed to clarify motivations for cannabis use that may link pandemic-related stressors to time spent high and cannabis-related consequences. A total of 488 cannabis-using college students (75% women) participated. A cross-sectional survey was administered in Fall 2020 and Spring 2021 to examine students' experiences during the pandemic. Indirect effects revealed that pandemic-related social stressors were linked to coping and boredom motives, and in turn, more hours spent high and cannabis-related consequences. Similarly, pandemic-related distress was associated with more coping motives and in turn, more hours spent high and cannabis-related consequences. Findings suggest prevention and intervention efforts may benefit from emphasizing alternative coping methods, including enhanced social support, during prolonged stressors.
Language: English
Subfield: Pharmacology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
Awards: Web-based treatment of heavy drinking among women with a history of sexual trauma, G2008590794, Technology-based intervention for alcohol-related sexual risk behaviors in young women with sexual victimization histories, Technology-based intervention for alcohol-related sexual risk behaviors in young women with sexual victimization histories, Leveraging Social Networks to Promote Sexual Assault Recovery and Reduce Drinking to Cope through a Web-Based Intervention
OpenAlex ID: W4389083202