Windsor mental health program sees jump in cannabis-induced psychosis — mainly with youth

Tegan Rose's job involves going into the community to support people aged 14 to 35 who have been in a state of psychosis for what's believed to be the first time.

The registered nurse and support worker is in the early intervention psychosis program under the umbrella of the Canadian Mental Health Association's Windsor, Ont., branch.

Rose said they've seen a "large increase" in cannabis-induced psychosis cases the past several years — "especially in young people." 

"That can trigger psychosis in people that may have a vulnerable brain, and maybe that they did have an underlying, psychotic disorder, but it's exacerbating symptoms," she said.

"It might not necessarily be an addiction, but recreational use as well can have a negative impact on symptoms."

In a 2023 cannabis survey by Health Canada, it stated that In 2023, the 30-day cannabis use remained higher among Canadians aged 16-19 years (up from 29 per cent to 31 per cent). For those aged 20-24, 23 per cent report using it 31 per cent of the time.Other studies have indicated a massive surge in emergency room visits in Ontario between 2014 to 2021 for cannabis-induced psychosis.

Psychosis is when a person undergoes a break from reality. It can change their thoughts and perceptions. Some people might hear voices or see things. Others could have trouble keeping their thoughts straight and experience delusions — a false fixed belief that someone might be out to get them or they're in harm's way.

"One of the big things that we focus on, providing education, is how substance use can affect psychosis, triggering psychosis," she said. 

Rose regularly meets with clients at their homes. She carries a caseload of around 17 people — oftentimes seeing each once or twice a week.

She said it's a mix of reasons why people end up in her care and get into a state of psychosis.

"We have some individuals that we would call a primary psychotic disorder. There might be a genetic predisposition. Sometimes we see it occur in individuals with a mood disorder, depression, bipolar disorder. And sometimes it's also substance abuse as well."

According to Rose, despite being in the community and inside the homes of clients, she feels comfortable and safe because of the program's initial intake screening process for potential risk.

"Obviously, we do have some safety precautions and safeguards in the odd situation where we might need to make a plan, but the majority of the time it increases accessibility for the individual."

Rose said meeting with clients in the field is where they're most comfortable, and that makes her job easier.