RECREATIONAL MARIJUANA: FACTS, FABLES, & CONCERNS

Course overview

This 4-hour live webinar examines the human and societal consequences of the rise in recreational marijuana usage, focusing on the sharp increase in THC potency and the resulting health impacts. Participants will explore the significant differences between low-potency marijuana of the past and today's highly concentrated forms (e.g., flower, edibles, concentrates, vape products), some reaching over 90% THC. Dr. Bornstein presents peer-reviewed research linking high-potency THC use to mental health disorders including depression, psychosis, schizophrenia, addiction, and suicide. Additional focus areas include the effects of THC on memory, decision-making, motivation, and learning outcomes, as well as adverse cardiovascular, immune, respiratory, and neurological effects. The course also highlights risks associated with marijuana use in populations with comorbidities and polypharmacy concerns, reinforcing the importance of recognizing symptoms of cannabis toxicity in holistic patient care. Massage therapists will gain insights critical for understanding clients who use recreational marijuana, and how substance use may affect tissue recovery, immune function, cardiovascular risk, and safety during therapy.