Quarter of mental health cases linked to cannabis

The number of patients treated on the adult mental health ward in 2023 was lower than in 2022

One in four admissions to Guernsey's adult mental health ward in 2023 were likely to be linked to cannabis use, a States report has found.

This compares with 4% of cases in 2019, when medicinal cannabis prescriptions were introduced.

The figures within the mental health strategy annual report are based on "clinical judgement".

That means there could be other contributing factors, but doctors think it is more likely to be linked to cannabis than not.

The report revealed that in 2023 of the admissions to Crevichon Ward, the in-patient mental health facility at Princess Elizabeth Hospital, 27 - 25% of the total admissions - were related to cannabis use.

It added admissions associated to cannabis were "not definitively and solely caused" by its use, but given the degree of increase, "the case for it being at least partially responsible, is compelling".

It said this "matches international experiences" and was having an impact on individuals, carers, and the mental health service.

The report notes 94% of heavy cannabis users never experience psychosis.

It also noted referrals to the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service had increased by 14% from 585 referrals in 2022 to 684 referrals in 2023.

'Early intervention'

Overall the total number of nights spent by patients on the Crevichon ward in 2023 was slightly lower than the previous year, the report said.

Dr Nicola Brink, director of public health, said: “I am really pleased with the progress made with the implementation of the Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy (MHWB) since its launch in September 2023.

"A whole islands approach to mental health and wellbeing is key and considering mental health and wellbeing in all policies will help address the social, economic and environmental factors that impact people’s mental health and wellbeing."

Jo Cottell, chief executive of Guernsey Mind, said: “We are pleased that this report highlights the continued efforts across the charitable and voluntary sector, States of Guernsey and other partners to raise awareness of mental health and the importance of prevention and early intervention.”