5. Treatment of cannabis-related problems in Europe: a typology and evidence overview

Cannabis is the illicit drug most widely available in Europe. Cannabis use can result in, or exacerbate, a range of physical and mental health, social and economic problems. Such problems are more likely to develop if use begins at a young age and develops into regular and long-term use. Health and social responses that address cannabis should therefore include interventions, including treatment for people whose cannabis use has become problematic. This presentation will provide an overview of new evidence and practices to treat cannabis-related problems.

The project includes: a systematic review of the literature on evidence-based treatment interventions for cannabis related disorders (TCD); and the identification of examples of programmes (models of care) for the treatment of cannabis related disorders. A group of experts has been/will be set up to support the development of models of care for TCD.

The presentation will present models of care that cover: therapeutic approaches/ practice, staffing and care standards with particular attention to digital interventions and including an assessment of the underlying evidence and critical discussion of the knowledge gaps and needs for investigation. The presentation will also include a mapping to assess cannabis coverage issues in Europe.

The work is ongoing and at Lisbon Addictions 2022 the full results of this project will be presented.