TORONTO – Young adults struggling with stress, anxiety, or depression are more likely to combine binge drinking with cannabis, a practice that researchers say can intensify intoxication and increase harmful consequences.
The study, led by York University’s Department of Psychology, found that participants who reported poor mental health were also more likely to suffer negative life impacts tied to combined substance use.
“Studies suggest that human brains are still developing into their 20s and alcohol and cannabis dependencies are more prevalent in this age group than any other,” said lead author Jeffrey Wardell in a press release. “While occasional combined use may not be a cause for concern, the study clearly shows increased risk when combining these substances. Understanding combined use can help young adults mitigate the risk, understand when they might have an issue and seek support to develop healthier coping mechanisms.”
Researchers recruited 151 young adults, ages 19 to 25 in Ontario, who already used both cannabis and alcohol. Over three 21-day periods spaced six months apart, participants tracked their daily substance use, mental health symptoms, and any negative consequences.
The results showed a strong connection between mental health challenges and the motivation to mix alcohol and cannabis.
“When they were feeling depressed or anxious, the participants were motivated to double things up because the thought was that it would make them feel better,” says Wardell. “They also reported that they were combining cannabis with binge drinking more frequently during these times.”
While substances may provide short-term relief, Wardell cautioned that long-term use often leads to worse outcomes for both mental health and daily functioning. He noted that healthier coping strategies include exercise, meditation, talking with friends, or reaching out for professional or peer support.
Researchers concluded that screening for mental health issues may help identify young adults at higher risk and open the door for early interventions.
“While they are not immune to effects on the developing brain, they’re also at a stage where most of the time these behaviors are just getting started, or the patterns are just getting laid. It’s a good time to give people feedback, give them advice, give them the information so they can make changes before their substance use habits become too ingrained,” said Wardell.
