In 2023, the number of patients treated on the adult mental health ward in Guernsey was lower than in the previous year, according to a recent report. While admissions associated with cannabis increased significantly from just 4% in 2019 to one in four cases, Dr. Nicola Brink, director of public health expressed satisfaction with the progress made in implementing the Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy since its launch in 2023. The report noted that while admissions linked to cannabis were not definitively and solely caused by its use, the increase suggests that it may be at least partially responsible.
Jo Cottell, chief executive of Guernsey Mind emphasized the importance of prevention and early intervention in addressing mental health issues. The report also highlighted that 94% of heavy cannabis users never experience psychosis. Referrals to the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service also increased by 14% from 2022 to 2023.
The trend aligns with international experiences and is having an impact on individuals, carers, and the mental health service in Guernsey. Despite this link to cannabis in some cases, overall, the total number of nights spent by patients on the adult mental health ward in 2023 was slightly lower than the previous year.