Effects of Cannabis Use Reduction on PTSD Symptoms in Combat Veterans: An Ecological Momentary Assessment Study

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) affects United States military veterans at a rate of approximately 20-30% and is associated with increased rates of cannabis use disorder (CUD). The current study utilized ecological momentary assessment (EMA) and contingency management (CM) to examine the effects of cannabis use reduction on daily functioning and PTSD symptoms in veterans with heavy cannabis use. It was hypothesized that decreased cannabis use would yield improved mental health outcomes. Results were mixed; decreased cannabis use was associated with worsening PTSD symptoms, reduced quality of life, and decreased satisfaction with concentration. Additionally, greater cannabis consumption was positively associated with better mental health outcomes during the ad lib period. These findings should be interpreted cautiously but contribute to ongoing discourse surrounding cannabis as a treatment modality. EMA methodology strengthened the study by minimizing recall bias and capturing symptoms in participants' natural ecological contexts.