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A new pilot study from UBC Okanagan and Thompson Rivers University examined how medically supervised cannabis use in a residential recovery home may support people in treatment for substance use challenges. The study, published in the Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs , was conducted by researchers from UBC Okanagan and Thompson Rivers University. Participants reported that cannabis helped them manage pain, anxiety, depression and sleep issues—key symptoms that can complicate recovery .
"Our findings suggest medical cannabis could play a meaningful role in reducing cravings and improving retention in recovery programs," says Dr. Zach Walsh, a psychology professor at UBC Okanagan and co-lead researcher. "Participants clearly indicated benefits in managing both physical and psychological challenges during recovery.
" Users also reported reduced cravings for opioids and other harmful substances, improved pain management and enhanced mental health and sleep quality. However, stigma surrounding cannabis use remains a significant barrier, according to the research. Staff interviews revealed a need for increased education and better integration into the cannabis treatment approach.
"Reducing stigma through targeted education for program staff is critical," says Dr. Florriann Fehr, co-lead researcher and nursing professor at Thompson Rivers University. "Staff skepticism often comes from misunderstandings about cannabis as a legitimate medical treatment, highlighting a clear opportunity for improvement in recovery support.
" This collaboration between institutions in Kelowna and Kamloops sought to better understand patient and staff experiences with medically supervised cannabis use in a supportive recovery environment. It examined patient and staff experiences at Maverick Supportive Recovery, a residential recovery center in the BC interior. Residential recovery centers provide structured, live-in environments where people receive treatment and support to manage substance use disorders .
While the results are promising, researchers emphasize the need for larger-scale studies to fully assess the benefits and risks of incorporating medical cannabis into substance use recovery programs. More information: Florriann C. Fehr et al, Medical Cannabis Use Adjunct to Standard of Care in a Residential Substance Use Recovery Program: A Pilot Study, Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs (2025).
DOI: 10.15288/jsad.24-00224.
