Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 7, 2026

Brain Morphology of Cannabis Users With or Without Psychosis: A Pilot MRI Study
Published on: August 18, 2020
The Prevalence of Cannabis Use Disorder in Individuals with Anxiety or Related Disorders: A Systematic Review
Ashlee R L Coles1, Jenna K Perry1, Brooke B Hiscock1
1Department of Psychology, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's NL, Canada.
Objective:
The current study aimed to systematically review the prevalence of comorbid Cannabis Use Disorder (CUD) in individuals with Anxiety and Related Disorders (ARDs).
Method:
PubMed, PsycInfo, and Web of Science were searched electronically to identify studies comprised of participants 18+ years, diagnosed with a current ARD via clinician interview and experiencing comorbid CUD (interview or validated screener). Of the 1646 articles identified, 11 were included.
Results:
Across general population samples (n = 7), approximately 1 in 30 to 1 in 5 individuals with an ARD had comorbid CUD (lifetime prevalence: 3.3%-21.6%; current prevalence: 4.3%-20.0%). Among veteran samples with PTSD (n = 4), comorbid CUD was reported in approximately 1 in 25 to 1 in 3 individuals for current prevalence (4.1%-34.0%), and about 1 in 9 for lifetime prevalence (11.3%-12.5%).
Conclusion:
Preliminary evidence suggests that individuals with ARDs may be susceptible to developing comorbid CUD. Current comorbidity rates may be higher among veterans with PTSD compared to adults in general population samples; however, due to the limited number of eligible studies and methodological heterogeneity, further research is needed to confirm this difference. Given the recent global increase in cannabis legalization, understanding ARD-CUD comorbidity in high-risk populations is essential to inform treatment and improve outcomes.
Related Concept Videos
Generalized Anxiety Disorder
Anxiety: Overview
Individuals with anxiety often experience a range of physical and emotional symptoms, including sweating, trembling, tachycardia, and disturbances in sleep patterns. These symptoms vary in intensity and frequency but are generally disruptive and distressing.
Stress and Mental Health
Individuals with depression often experience challenges in both their personal and professional...
Social Anxiety Disorder
Panic Disorder
Substance Use Disorders Affecting Sleep
Understanding the concepts of physical dependence,...

