In many states, marijuana is now legal for certain medical purposes. Identify some clinical
issues that may now present themselves because of legalization. What prevention efforts are
important to help individuals prevent developing a cannabis use disorder? What if you have a
client who is addicted to alcohol and narcotics, who is also using marijuana to help with
chronic pain? How might you address this situation? How does the Flexibility disposition
(GCU Counselor Dispositions) connect to the use of cannabis by a client that has SUD
issues? Discuss the importance of applying crisis management skills and collaboration with
other professionals.
There are many impactful issues that arise from the legalization and use of marijuana.
Clinicians and healthcare providers must be aware of the potential for misuse of cannabis
and work to prevent it through careful monitoring and collaboration with other professionals.
According to SAMHSA, studies link marijuana use to depression, anxiety, suicide planning,
and psychotic episodes (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, 2023).
These many effects are crucial for counselors to understand and recognize in their efforts to
treat and prevent cannabis use disorder. Of these many strategies that counselors can use,
education is a powerful tool. Education informs individuals of the potential side affects that
can come from using a legalized substance.
Munsey, C. (2010). Medicine or menace?. American Psychological Association.
https://www.apa.org/monitor/2010/06/marijuana
National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2019). Marijuana DrugFacts. National Institute on Drug
Abuse.
https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/drugfacts/marijuana
