A1 Refereed original research article in a scientific journal

Cannabis use, perceived problems and the contemplation of reducing or quitting: a cross-sectional survey for vocational students




AuthorsLostedt Jasmin, Stolt Minna, Niemelä Solja, Pasanen Miko, Salom Caroline, Thomas natalie, Kannussaari Kim, Mishina Kaisa

PublisherTaylor & Francis

Publication year2024

JournalJournal of Substance Use

ISSN1465-9891

eISSN1475-9942

DOIhttps://doi.org/10.1080/14659891.2024.2356572

Web address https://www.tandfonline.com/eprint/YC7RMRZAKXQZ5PZSCHJP/full?target=10.1080/14659891.2024.2356572

Self-archived copy’s web addresshttps://research.utu.fi/converis/portal/detail/Publication/404723005


Abstract

Objective: To assess problematic cannabis use, perceived cannabis-related problems and contemplation of reducing or quitting the use among vocational students and associations between perceived problems and contemplation of reducing or quitting cannabis use.

Methods: A cross-sectional survey among Finnish vocational school students (N = 1,855) using the Cannabis Use Disorder Identification Test-Revised.

Results: Of those who reported cannabis use (n = 375), 20.5% (n = 77) reported problematic use. The most perceived problems were memory or concentration problems (n = 151, 39.1%), devoting a great deal of time to use (n = 144, 37.4%), and failing to do what was normally expected (n = 106, 27.5%). One third (35.4%, n = 136) had contemplated reducing or quitting the use, especially among those who reported an inability to stop using (Adjusted odds ratio (AOR): 5.57; CI95: 2.48–13.16).

Conclusions: The perceived problems related to cannabis-use are such that may affect to academic success, employment and general life management. It is imperative to screen and implement low- threshold cannabis interventions in student health care. A third of students who used cannabis had contemplated quitting or reducing use, which provides an opportunity for brief supporting interventions.


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Funding information in the publication
Funding for this research were provided by Juho Vainio Foundation, State Research Funding and The Finnish Foundation for Alcohol Studies.


Last updated on 2025-26-05 at 08:29