Study Details and Findings

Research led by Jeffrey Wardell, Associate Professor in York University’s Faculty of Health and director of the Behavioural Alcohol and Cannabis Research lab (BAC Lab), found that young adults experiencing higher levels of stress, anxiety, and depressed mood were more likely to combine binge drinking with cannabis use in an attempt to enhance the effects of both substances. The study was published in the journal Alcohol: Clinical and Experimental Research on september 10, 2025 [News Medical].

The study’s findings indicate that this combined use is associated with a greater likelihood of reporting adverse life consequences. Wardell emphasizes the importance of this research given the increasing prevalence of cannabis use among young adults following its legalization in canada [News Medical].

“Studies suggest that human brains are still developing into their 20s and alcohol and cannabis dependencies are more prevalent in this age group than any other,” Wardell stated [News Medical]. “While occasional combined use may not be a cause for concern, the study clearly shows increased risk when combining these substances. Understanding combined use can help young adults mitigate the risk, understand when they might have an issue and seek support to develop healthier coping mechanisms.”

The Developing Brain and Substance Use

The study’s focus on young adults is particularly relevant due to the ongoing growth of the brain well into the early twenties. This period of neurodevelopmental plasticity makes young people more vulnerable to the addictive properties of both alcohol and cannabis. The Canadian Center on Substance Use and Addiction (CCSA) provides extensive resources on adolescent brain development and substance use [CCSA].

Combining substances during this critical period can disrupt normal brain development, potentially leading to long-term cognitive and emotional impairments. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) offers detailed information on the effects of alcohol and cannabis on the developing brain [NIDA].

Implications of cannabis Legalization

Canada legalized recreational cannabis in October 2018 [Government of Canada]. While legalization aimed to reduce the harms associated with the illicit cannabis market, it has also led to increased accessibility and use, particularly among young adults. Statistics Canada data shows a steady increase in cannabis use among Canadians aged 15-24 since legalization [Statistics Canada].

This increased access necessitates a