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County health officials warn heavy youth cannabis use increases risk of psychosis, urge prevention and funding
Summary
Deschutes County behavioral‑health staff told the Board of Commissioners that high‑potency, frequent cannabis use—especially in adolescents and young adults—is linked to higher risk of psychosis and other mental‑health harms. Staff urged broader prevention and flagged Measure 110 funding cuts that will reduce services.
Deschutes County behavioral‑health officials told county commissioners on April 1 that heavy cannabis use among youth and young adults is associated with increased risk of psychosis and other lasting harms, and they urged expanded prevention work as local treatment funding is cut.
The county presentation, led by Behavioral Health Director Shannon Bistaraugus and clinicians from county programs, used national and local survey data and clinical studies to link potency and frequency of cannabis use to negative outcomes. County staff also reported reductions in Measure 110 behavioral‑health funding that will shrink some treatment and outreach services.
Why it matters: Commissioners heard that rising THC potency in commercial products and patterns of weekly or daily use substantially raise risks for new‑onset psychosis and worsening mood disorders in…
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