The Effectiveness of Cannabis and Its Impact on Daily Activities

Mental and physical health struggles have become increasingly prominent for individuals in all phases of life to various degrees. These struggles negatively impact a person's ability to effectively complete preferred daily tasks and occupations, specifically if untreated. Current literature indicates that although there are multiple prescription medications to alleviate symptoms of anxiety, chronic pain, and sleep issues, these medications come with a long list of short-term and long-term side effects and can also be expensive and unaffordable without insurance, especially when considering that these four symptoms are often identified as comorbidities. These factors highlight why there is an increased need for research on other alternative treatment options. Data gathered from previous studies was used to determine cannabis as a viable treatment option for various medical diagnoses. With this knowledge, the doctoral experiential capstone project aimed to investigate the effectiveness of cannabis and its impact on daily activities through a mixed methods survey posted on University Posts and flyers distributed at WNE Blake Law building and participating dispensaries (see appendix B). The survey focused on how and why participants used cannabis, attitudes towards cannabis, and the impact, both positive and negative, cannabis has on daily occupations. Through data analysis, common and significant themes were identified, and with current literature, used to create a poster, educational packet, and modules for participating dispensaries (see appendix H, I, J) and an in-service presentation to be given to WNE OTD hybrid year 1 students (see appendix G). This in-service provided education and a platform to discuss cannabis as an alternative method of treatment for clients experiencing various medical diagnoses, along with adverse effects, additional benefits, legality, and other factors associated with cannabis use. There is a need for more research and education on cannabis as an alternative treatment method as many studies cite small sample size, high risk of bias, and federal restrictions as limitations.