Cannabis can help in recovery care but stigma remains a challenge, says new study

published on April 11, 2025 in StratCann

A new pilot study in Canada looked at how medically supervised cannabis use in a residential recovery home could support people in treatment for substance use challenges.

Participants in the study reported that cannabis helped them manage pain, anxiety, depression and sleep issues, all symptoms that can complicate recovery. Stigma surrounding cannabis remains a barrier, though.

The research resulted from a collaboration between UBC Okanagan and Thompson Rivers University in BC and Queen’s University in Kingston, Ontario.

“Our findings suggest medical cannabis could play a meaningful role in reducing cravings and improving retention in recovery programs,” says Dr. Zach Walsh, a psychology professor at UBC Okanagan and co-lead researcher…