A1 Refereed original research article in a scientific journal

Help-Seeking for Problematic Cannabis Use Among Young People: A Qualitative Study with Professionals and People with Lived Experience




AuthorsLostedt, Jasmin; Väätäinen, Laura; Lantta, Tella; Niemelä, Solja; Mishina, Kaisa

PublisherInforma UK Limited

Publication year2026

Journal: Substance Use and Misuse

ISSN1082-6084

eISSN1532-2491

DOIhttps://doi.org/10.1080/10826084.2026.2670615

Publication's open availability at the time of reportingNo Open Access

Publication channel's open availability Partially Open Access publication channel

Web address https://doi.org/10.1080/10826084.2026.2670615


Abstract

Background: The growing need for help for problematic cannabis use, reflected in outpatient service access, suggests a widening treatment gap. Various influencing factors have contributed to a complex phenomenon in which help-seeking is shaped not only by personal wishes and needs but also by broader social, cultural, and structural constraints. Objectives: This study explored the factors influencing help-seeking related to problematic cannabis use as well as the development needs for addressing these issues. Methods: This qualitative descriptive study involved semi-structured interviews conducted in substance abuse treatment facilities in Finland. Four people with lived experiences of problematic cannabis use were interviewed along with 14 professionals who worked with this population. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Results: The influencing factors were categorized as either promoting or hindering help-seeking and are described as counterparts to each other. Four main themes emerged: capability, awareness, stigma, and prioritization. Development needs centered on improving accessibility, strengthening outreach and education, and increasing knowledge among professionals and young people. Conclusion: This study highlights the multifaced nature of cannabis-related help-seeking among young people. The promotion of help-seeking requires a broad coordinated approach that simultaneously strengthens awareness, builds capability, improves accessibility, and reduces stigma. Such efforts should be implemented in ways that involve young people and that genuinely respond to their needs.



Keywords:
cannabismarijuana


Funding information in the publication
This study was supported by The Finnish Foundation for Alcohol Studies; Juho Vainio Foundation.


Last updated on 17/06/2026 10:13:52 AM