James Swartz

James Swartz

James Swartz is a clinical psychologist and professor in the Jane Addams College of Social Work, where he is also the interim associate dean for research. His most recent research focuses on the public health effects of legalizing adult-use cannabis and the opioid epidemic, including ways to reduce associated overdoses and prescription drug abuse.

Swartz is the principal investigator on a project funded by the Illinois Department of Human Services/Division of Substance Use Prevention and Recovery and the Adult Use Cannabis Health Advisory Committee to evaluate the public health impacts of legalizing recreational cannabis in Illinois.

He is also working on the Cannabis Regulation and Tax Act Evaluation Study, engaging in data collection, analysis and project evaluation.

In 2025, Swartz published a study in JAMA Network Open on Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome, which presents severe vomiting tied to chronic cannabis use. He also co-authored a report that sheds light on the explosion of hemp-derived THC products and growing concerns over their safety, legality and impact on public health.

Swartz is also developing a treatment program ratings system for substance use treatment to be used by the Illinois Division of Behavioral Health and Recovery, treatment providers and consumers.