Deschutes County commissioners to receive findings, data about impact of heavy cannabis use on mental health

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- On Wednesday, during the Deschutes Board of County Commissioners meeting, the Board will hear a presentation about heavy cannabis use and its impacts on mental health. The presentation is only for information purposes, there will be no board action following the presentation.

County Behavioral Health and Public Health staff will provide information about emerging medical findings, scientific data and the impacts of increased cannabis use among youth and its association with onset of psychotic symptoms and other issues.

The presentation will cover the items listed below:

·       Cannabis 101: prevalence, effects & potency

·       Cannabis Use Disorder

·       Review of research/data on risks and benefits of cannabis use

·       Interventions with people with mental health disorders

·       Prevention efforts currently in place

·       Support for healthy messaging around risks

·       Key take-away messages for parents and communities

County Behavioral Health and Public Health work together to provide comprehensive, community-based services and prevention support to people with substance use disorders or harmful substance use.

Members of the public are invited to attend the Board of County Commissioners meeting, which begins at 9 a.m. in the Barnes and Sawyer rooms of the Deschutes Services Building, located at 1300 NW Wall St., in Bend. A remote option is also available, and the county has its meetings viewable online through YouTube.