Psychosis and Cannabis Use in Chile: A National Analysis of Hospitalizations (2020–2023)

Abstract

Introduction: Psychotic disorder due to cannabinoid use is a mental condition that is increasing in Chile due to high consumption rates in the population. Clinically, it is characterized by hallucinations, delusions, and behavioral disturbances. Methodology: Observational, descriptive, and quantitative study using statistical data from the Department of Statistics and Health Information (DEIS) and the National Institute of Statistics (INE). The descriptive analysis was carried out using measures of central tendency, supported by graphs and tables generated in Excel analytical software. Ethics committee approval was not required. Results: The highest hospitalization discharge rate (HDR) occurred in 2020, with a value of 0.42 per-100,000 inhabitants. Men showed the highest HDR during the study period, with 0.62 per-100,000 inhabitants. The age group with the highest HDR was 15 to 19 years, with a value of 0.74 per-100,000. The average length of hospital stay was 20.28 days. Discussion: The increase in HDR in 2020 could be related to the rise in cannabis use during the pandemic, influenced by stress and isolation. The predominance in males and the 15–19-year-old age group is consistent with available literature on consumption patterns and risk perception. Conclusion: There is evidence of a sustained increase in cannabis use and its psychiatric consequences. Urgent preventive measures should be implemented, targeting vulnerable groups.