The perception of mental health professionals about marijuana

ABSTRACT Objective The perception of marijuana among mental health professionals is unknown in Brazil. The aim of this study was to compare mental health professionals’ perception and knowledge standards about marijuana in three institutions with different profiles. Methods Seventy professionals (psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, occupational therapists and nurses) from three mental health services – Nossa Senhora de Fátima Hospital (philanthropic hospital), CAPS-AD (public specialized service on treating drugs and alcohol dependents), and the Institute of Psychiatry at the Clinics Hospital, Medical School, University of São Paulo (academic and assistance service) were evaluated through a 31 affirmatives questionnaire created by researchers. Results Psychiatrists disagree more often than other health professionals on the need to treat marijuana users and on the idea that it causes cognitive damages. The professionals from Nossa Senhora de Fátima Hospital are more in favor of the prohibition of marijuana use and consider more the possible damages associated with its use, when compared to professionals from the other two institutions. Conclusions The perception of marijuana among mental health providers may vary according to their profession and work place.