Cannabis use and risk of suicidal behavior-related outcomes: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Objective: Cannabis is a commonly used recreational substance that can have diverse effects on both the physical and mental well-being of individuals. We examined the relationship between cannabis use and suicidal-related behavioral outcomes. Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted using three databases (PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus) and manual searches of Google Scholar and ResearchGate. Results: The results showed that cannabis use was significantly associated with an increased likelihood of suicidal ideation and suicide attempts, as well as suicide plans, mortality, and self-injury. The odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals for each relationship were calculated, and a random-effects method was used for the meta-analysis. Specifically, the odds ratio for suicidal ideation was 1.63 (95% confidence interval = 1.44–1.85; P < 0.001), and the odds ratio for suicide attempts was 1.93 (95% confidence interval = 1.56–2.37; P < 0.001). Furthermore, women who used cannabis were more likely to experience suicidal ideation, while men and women who used cannabis were more likely to experience suicidality. Conclusion: Results suggest individuals who use cannabis are more likely to experience suicidal-related outcomes than those who do not use cannabis.