Problematic social media use among recreational cannabis users in Québec: A Cross-Sectional study

Over the past decade, Canada has legalized recreational cannabis, and the rising popularity of social media has coincided with the emergence of problematic social media use (PSMU) as a potential behavioural addiction. This study aims to describe social media use and identify factors associated with PSMU among adult recreational cannabis users in Québec, Canada.

This cross-sectional study includes 1406 participants who used both social media and cannabis. Data was collected using validated instruments measuring PSMU (BSMAS), online fear of missing out (On-FoMO), risk for problematic cannabis use (CAST), mental health variables (GAD-7, PHQ-8), and sociodemographic characteristics. A regression model was used to identify factors associated with PSMU.

Approximately 27.9 % of participants exhibited PSMU. Increased odds of PSMU were associated with a younger age (18-20 years), male sex at birth, and higher CAST, PHQ-8, and On-FoMO scores. Use of Telegram, TikTok, Twitter (X) and Facebook Dating was associated with increased odds of PSMU, whereas use of Snapchat and Threads was associated with reduced odds.

This study is among the first to examine PSMU in adult cannabis users. Among them, prevalence of PSMU is higher than estimates for the general population. The odds of PSMU vary by social media platform. These findings suggest a need for targeted public health strategies that address social media and cannabis use.