
Marijuana is often viewed as harmless — especially when compared to other substances. But psychiatry tells a more nuanced story. Cannabis affects the brain systems responsible for mood, anxiety, motivation, and perception. For some people, it may temporarily reduce distress. For others, it can worsen anxiety, contribute to panic, interfere with motivation, or increase vulnerability…

This article is part of Medication-Assisted Treatment & Harm Reduction Psychiatry, a series examining how PMHNPs use evidence-based medications and harm reduction principles to support long-term recovery. Many people feel anxious before their first PMHNP addiction appointment This article is part of The PMHNP Guide to Addiction Psychiatry, a clinical education series exploring how Psychiatric…

This article is part of Medication-Assisted Treatment & Harm Reduction Psychiatry, a series examining how PMHNPs use evidence-based medications and harm reduction principles to support long-term recovery. A PMHNP’s Role in Treating Addiction: What Comprehensive Care Actually Looks Like This article is part of The PMHNP Guide to Addiction Psychiatry, a clinical education series exploring…

This article is part of The PMHNP Guide to Addiction Psychiatry, a clinical education series exploring how Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners assess, diagnose, and treat substance use disorders using evidence-based, trauma-informed care. In recent years, the role of Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners (PMHNPs) has gained significant attention as mental health care becomes a…