Over 4,400 adult internet users completed The Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression scale and measures of marijuana use. An internet survey was used in order to attract the most depressed and marijuana involved participants – those who might not be willing to travel, discuss marijuana use on the phone, or in person.
Comparisons were made between those who used marijuana daily, once a week or less, or never in their lives.
Those who used once per week or less had less depressed mood, more positive affect, and fewer somatic complaints than non-users. Daily users reported less depressed mood and more positive affect than non-users.
This study suggests that adults apparently do not increase their risk for depression by using marijuana. Good news for mother natures medicinal plant and its advocates.
