Five years after widespread legalization reshaped cannabis policy across North America, new research suggests public attitudes are shifting in a more cautious direction even as usage continues to climb.
A recent study examining post-legalization perceptions in Canada found that while cannabis has become more socially acceptable since its 2018 legalization, concerns about its safety and health impacts are increasing. Respondents expressed growing unease about cannabis use disorders and skepticism about its effectiveness in treating mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression.
At the same time, industry data points to continued growth. Analysts at Whitney Economics project legal cannabis revenues will reach $30.5 billion in 2026, marking a steady increase from the previous year. In the United States, research from Pew Research Center indicates that roughly 80 percent of Americans now live in counties with at least one cannabis dispensary. Meanwhile, in Canada, data from the Canadian Centre for Substance Use and Addiction shows cannabis use has risen by about 40 percent since 2017.
Despite its growing accessibility, new findings are challenging perceptions of cannabis as a therapeutic tool. A study published in The Lancet in April 2026 found little evidence supporting cannabis as an effective treatment for anxiety, depression or post-traumatic stress disorder. Lead author Jack Wilson said the research found “no evidence” that cannabis effectively treats these conditions—conclusions that align with earlier studies published in JAMA.
Researchers are also raising alarms about youth consumption. A study from McGill University linked early, frequent cannabis use—particularly before age 15—to increased risks of mental health disorders, respiratory issues and injury. Separate findings from the University of Saskatchewan suggest impaired driving risks may persist for hours after use, especially among teens and young adults.
Health experts are also highlighting the rise of cannabis hyperemesis syndrome, a condition involving severe nausea and vomiting associated with frequent use. Emerging research indicates vaping cannabis may accelerate the onset of symptoms, adding to concerns about lung health.
As legalization expands and usage rises, experts emphasize the importance of informed decision-making. While cannabis remains widely viewed as relatively low-risk, a growing body of research suggests its impacts—particularly on mental health and young users—are more complex than once believed.
Read the whole article from Psychology Today here.
