Symptoms of Depression and Anxiety and Subsequent Use of Nicotine and THC in Electronic Cigarettes.

Introduction:
This text discusses a study examining the relationship between symptoms of depression, anxiety, and comorbidity in young people and their subsequent use of nicotine and THC in electronic cigarettes. The study aims to identify specific populations at greater risk for e-cigarette use and the role of mental health symptomatology in nicotine or THC use.

Key Points:

* The study uses data from the Texas Adolescent Tobacco and Marketing Surveillance study, with participants from the four largest metropolitan areas in Texas.
* The study measures symptoms of depression and anxiety using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 and Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 item scales.
* Participants were asked about their past 30-day use of e-cigarettes with nicotine and THC.
* The study controlled for grade level, gender, SES, and previous use behaviors.
* Results showed symptoms of depression, anxiety, and comorbidity were significantly associated with subsequent e-cigarette use with nicotine and THC.
* The associations varied by race/ethnicity, gender, grade level, and SES.
* The study suggests that mental health symptomatology is an important indicator of future nicotine and THC vaping among young people.

Main Message:
The study highlights the need for clinicians to be aware of groups most at risk for substance use, particularly nicotine and THC vaping, among young people with symptoms of depression, anxiety, and comorbidity. Targeted interventions and education can help identify and address mental health concerns and reduce the use of electronic cigarettes among this vulnerable population.

Clendennen SL, Smith J, Sumbe A, Chen B, Wilkinson AV, Harrell MB. Symptoms of Depression and Anxiety and Subsequent Use of Nicotine and THC in Electronic Cigarettes. Substance use & misuse. 2023;58(5):591-600. doi:10.1080/10826084.2023.2177110