Cannabis use and bipolar disorder: an examination of reasons for use and interactions with childhood trauma

Abstract

The chapters within this doctoral thesis are focused on Bipolar Disorder and Cannabis Use. Cannabis use is common among those with Bipolar Disorder and has been associated with poorer clinical outcomes, including earlier illness onset and increased symptom severity. Despite this, it is still used, suggesting that it serves a function for some individuals. Understanding the reasons for Cannabis use in Bipolar Disorder holds clinical importance, but is challenging due to the heterogeneity of cannabis use, bipolar disorder, and the psychosocial factors associated, such as childhood trauma. This thesis aims to contribute to a more nuanced understanding of cannabis use in Bipolar Disorder.
The first chapter provides the context and framework for the thesis, outlining the heterogeneity and complexity of BD and CU, and the relevance of working clinically in a formulation driven, trauma informed approach.
The second chapter is a systematic review which synthesised findings from existing research to understand the reasons people diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder use cannabis. A narrative synthesis identified a range of perceived reasons for CU, including self-medication, enjoyment and difficulties associated with prescribed medication.
The third chapter is an empirical paper which explores the relationship between childhood trauma and cannabis use on the mood symptom severity of bipolar disorder in the United States. Secondary data was analysed and a control group recruited for comparison. Findings indicated that both childhood trauma and cannabis use severity were independently associated with greater mood symptom severity, although trauma did not moderate the relationship between cannabis use and mood symptoms.
Keywords: Bipolar Disorder, Cannabis Use, Childhood Trauma, Mood, Motivations

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ORCID for Emily Mortimer: orcid.org/0009-0006-0315-4090

ORCID for Thomas Richardson: orcid.org/0000-0002-5357-4281

ORCID for Emma Palmer-Cooper: orcid.org/0000-0002-5416-1518

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