This session will explore the role of medical cannabis in conditions such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, and sleep disorders. Discussion will cover evidence, limitations, patient selection, and risk mitigation, with strategies to address polypharmacy and ensure safe, collaborative care.
Objectives:
• Review evidence for medical cannabis in anxiety, depression, PTSD, and sleep disorders.
• Identify appropriate patient profiles and red flags for cannabinoid therapy in mental health.
• Explore harm-reduction strategies and polypharmacy management in patients with mood and sleep disorders.
Speaker:
Erin O’Shaughnessy, MScN, NP-PHC
Erin is a nurse practitioner with almost four decades of experience in a variety of healthcare settings. She holds an undergraduate nursing degree from the University of Manitoba and a master’s degree from York University. She completed her primary care NP diploma at the University of Ottawa in 2014.
As a former Clinical Nurse Specialist in pediatric oncology, Erin has been treating patients with medical cannabis for over 20 years. She began independently authorizing medical cannabis in 2017.
Erin has an extensive background in clinical practice education and has presented at numerous national and international conferences. She presents frequently on the topic of medical cannabis, both to healthcare professionals and the lay public.