September 2, 2022

Study to investigate public perceptions of cannabidiol use

Researchers are seeking participants for CBD study

University of Wollongong (UOW) School of Psychology research fellow Dr Jessica Bartschi and research partner Dr Lisa-Marie Greenwood from Australian National University are seeking participants for a study investigating public perceptions related to the use of cannabidiol (CBD), a component of the cannabis plant, to treat mental ill-health.

As part of their work with Australian Centre for Cannabinoid Clinical and Research Excellence they are hoping to gather the views of at least 1500 people to understand community perceptions of cannabis-based medicines.

“The use of cannabis and cannabis-based medicines to treat a range of health conditions is rapidly increasing,” Dr Bartschi said.

“While there is substantial research going into medicinal application of this compound, there is currently little known about what people think about cannabis-based medicines in Australia. This research aims to improve our understanding of people’s views on the use of CBD as a medicine.”

“In this survey, we will investigate people’s thoughts, feelings and attitudes towards their personal use, or supporting others use, of CBD to treat symptoms of mental ill-health.”

Products containing CBD have been approved by the Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration since 2020 and there is evidence that they are useful in the treatment of a variety of mental conditions including depression, anxiety, ADHD, Tourette's syndrome, and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Dr Greenwood said, “The information gathered from this survey will inform the ongoing mental health needs of individuals and communities in Australia, with practical implications to address barriers and access to cannabis-based medicines.”

“We are looking to assess people’s thoughts and feelings about CBD products that are available to treat a range of conditions. What are the reasons that people are choosing to or not to use CBD?”

“The survey is open to all people aged over 18 across Australia who are not currently using a CBD based medicine.

“The online survey will take just 15 minutes to complete and will help paint a picture of the public sentiment towards treatments. 

Survey link: https://psychology.anu.edu.au/research/projects/public-perception-use-cannabidiol-treat-symptoms-mental-ill-health