In a country where the media narrative around cannabis is largely negative and moral panic articles appear weekly, a new study of Irish cannabis consumers offers valuable insights into usage patterns, dependence rates, and attitudes towards cannabis. Published in The Journal of Substance Use, the study provides a rare glimpse into the experiences and perspectives of cannabis users in Ireland, with potential implications for future public health and policy initiatives.
The stereotype of the "invisible user" is perhaps the biggest myth surrounding cannabis. Contrary to this belief, many individuals who consume cannabis are healthy, well-adjusted, and successful members of society, contributing positively to their communities who rarely experience negative outcomes.
Frequency of Use
The study predominantly captures the male demographic, with 61% of respondents identifying as male, most of whom are under 30 years of age. This trend is consistent with global patterns of cannabis use. Notably, nearly half of the respondents reported consuming cannabis for over 400 days in their lifetime, with a quarter having consumed it for more than 100 days. These findings suggest that targeted interventions focusing on the under-30 age group should be considered. The high frequency of use underscores the need for policies that accommodate both non-problematic recreational consumption and interventions for those at risk of developing dependency issues. An educational campaign focusing on responsible consumption and harm reduction could be one such intervention.
Poly-Drug Use
The findings also reveal that cannabis users in Ireland often engage in poly-drug use. Approximately 60% of respondents admitted to having consumed other substances such as cocaine or MDMA at some point in their lives. There is also a strong correlation between cannabis and tobacco use, with three-quarters of cannabis consumers also smoking tobacco. This reflects a cultural trend in Ireland and across Europe, where mixing tobacco with cannabis is more common than smoking pure cannabis, as seen in other jurisdictions. This combination presents its own health risks due to the well-documented dangers of tobacco use. The study suggests that addressing poly-drug use could be an important focus for harm reduction strategies, as well as launching an educational campaign encouraging users to shift towards healthier methods of cannabis consumption, free from tobacco.
Support for Reform
Despite acknowledging public health concerns associated with cannabis use, the study demonstrates overwhelming support for cannabis reform in Ireland. A remarkable 93% of respondents favoured legalising and regulating cannabis, while an even larger 98% supported the use of medicinal cannabis. This shows that the majority of cannabis users are strongly in favour of reforming current laws. Interestingly, respondents were less supportive of the decriminalisation of all drugs, with only 42% in favour. This selective approach highlights the social hierarchy of drug acceptability. The current high levels of support for cannabis reform may influence the direction of Irish drug policy, indicating that existing laws are increasingly out of step with public attitudes.
Health and Wellbeing
The study also highlights differences in health outcomes between male and female cannabis users, with women being more likely to report poorer health. While 32% of women reported experiencing lower wellbeing, only 16% of men did. Despite these concerns, only 3% of respondents expressed regret about their cannabis consumption, indicating that the vast majority feel they benefit from its use. This reflects a more nuanced picture, where cannabis-related health risks are perceived by users as manageable.
This year, the Citizens' Assembly recommended the decriminalisation of all drugs, advocating for the removal of criminal penalties for personal drug use and the introduction of health-led diversion strategies. Despite reports that cannabis is the primary substance behind individuals seeking addiction treatment, the study reveals that 70-85% of cannabis users do not have a cannabis use disorder, and 78.7% report high levels of wellbeing. These figures are consistent with findings from other countries, such as Portugal, where over 80% of cannabis users are found to need no further health interventions.
The future of Ireland's drug policy remains under review by the current government. However, these findings reinforce the message long voiced by cannabis users and academics: cannabis consumption does not typically require health intervention. Rather than straining healthcare resources, a more effective approach would involve prioritising education and harm reduction strategies. By maintaining a focus on these areas, we can address any potential public health concerns while respecting the autonomy of responsible cannabis users.
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