In order to understand the discrepancy between self-reported reasons for cannabis use and the scientific evidence that currently exists, there are many areas of research that must be addressed, see Table 1. For schizophrenia, while initial results have been promising, more rigorous, controlled trials, as well as multi-site clinical trials, are necessary to confirm CBD’s therapeutic potential. The evidence, however, is strong surrounding the harms of recreational cannabis use in schizophrenia. Although, additional longitudinal, prospective studies are necessary in understanding what exact preparations of cannabis, frequency of cannabis use and age of onset of use promote this association. For MDD, there are only secondary analyses of cannabinoids benefiting depressive symptoms. Future research addressing the direct relationship between specific cannabinoids and MDD using appropriate measures are necessary. Moreover, longitudinal, prospective designs as well as controlled, clinical trials must assess the relationship between cannabis use and potential harms, such as risk of MDD and worsening of depression symptoms and outcomes. There is only minimal evidence in BD suggesting the harms of cannabis use, therefore, future controlled, prospective designs are necessary in furthering
