The Association Between Physical Activity and Mood Symptoms in Young Adult Cannabis Users

Background: Previous research has found a link between chronic cannabis use and depressive symptoms in youth (Cairns et al., 2014; Miller & Plant, 2002; Lev-Ran et al., 2014). Sedentary lifestyle, or poor exercise habits, may worsen these symptoms, as a link has been shown between moderate physical activity and improved mood (Larsson & Wichstrøm 2010; Patten et al., 2009; Biddle & Asare 2011). It is hypothesized that young adult cannabis users who are physically active will demonstrate fewer depressive symptoms. Method: Data was collected from 50 teens and emerging adults with a history of cannabis use. Past year exercise habits were measured with the EPAQ and depressive symptoms were measured with the Beck Depression Inventory-2. Exclusionary criteria included independent Axis I disorders (besides SUD), prenatal health issues or significant drug exposure, and medical and neurologic disorders. Multiple regressions will examine the impact of exercise habits (rigorous activity and sedentary behavior) on depressive symptoms in young cannabis users