Head Inside Mental Health

Unraveling Cannabis and Mental Health with Dr. Rocco Marotta

Todd Weatherly

What if the rapidly increasing potency of cannabis is silently fueling a mental health crisis? Join us on Head Inside Mental Health as we sit down with Dr. Rocco Marotta, a distinguished psychiatrist and neurologist with Silver Hill Hospital, to unravel the intricate link between cannabis use and psychosis. Dr. Marotta shares his compelling journey from a liberal perspective on cannabis to a tale of caution, shaped by firsthand experiences in the medical field. Explore the complex divide in cannabis perception—some hail it as a remedy for anxiety and pain management, while others see the potential dangerous consequences, particularly in psychiatric settings. 
 
 The conversation takes a critical turn as we examine the skyrocketing THC levels in modern cannabis and the resulting public health challenges. Discover the staggering increase in potency from Woodstock-era levels to today's potent strains, with some products reaching up to 80% THC. This shift places our youth at an unprecedented risk, raising urgent questions about substance use in schools and the role of education in mitigating these risks.  The episode amplifies the need for systemic support and informed discussions to address these pressing societal issues.