Bipolar Disorder

 Bipolar disorder can be identified by episodes of depression, mania, and hypomania.  Most often, bipolar disorder has co-existing disorders, including anxiety and behavioral disorders. Consistently, research has shown an association between the usage of marijuana and the worsening of bipolar features and related conditions.  Related conditions may include poor global functioning, decreased long-term remission, suicide attempts, psychotic symptoms, and worsened affective episodes.  Essentially, marijuana use and cannabis use disorders are more prevalent amongst those with bipolar disorders, particularly in comparison to the general population.  This section will address frequency and use amongst individuals with bipolar disorder, and the effects of concurrent marijuana use on comorbid conditions.