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While marijuana is often seen as harmless, it can trigger serious mental health issues for some people, including psychosis. Psychosis is a condition where someone loses touch with reality, experiencing things like hallucinations, delusions, and confused thinking. In this post, we’ll explore how marijuana can lead to psychosis who’s most at risk, and what to do if it happens.
Psychosis can make someone feel disconnected from reality. Some common symptoms include:
- Delusions (false beliefs, like thinking you have special powers)
- Hallucinations (hearing voices, seeing things, or feeling sensations that others don’t)
- Confused thinking (trouble following conversations or understanding what’s going on)
Marijuana contains THC, which can affect the brain. At high doses or with frequent use, it may trigger psychosis, especially for people with certain risk factors. If you or a loved one is experiencing discomfort or adverse effects from Cannabis, know that you’re not alone. At Northview Wellness Center, we specialize in helping individuals understand and overcome habits that are no longer helpful. Our compassionate team provides personalized treatment plans to help you regain control and build healthier coping strategies. Contact us today and take the first step toward a healthier future.
Learn More about these risk factors
- High THC content: Marijuana is stronger now, which increases the risk.
- Family history: People with a family history of mental health issues like schizophrenia may be more likely to experience psychosis.
- Frequent use: Using marijuana regularly, especially in large amounts, can increase the risk.
- Young age: The brain is still developing in adolescence, and marijuana use can disrupt this process.
Symptoms of Marijuana-Induced Psychosis
If marijuana triggers psychosis, common signs include:
- Paranoia (feeling overly suspicious or fearful)
- Hallucinations (hearing voices, seeing things, etc.)
- Delusions (false beliefs)
- Confused thinking (trouble understanding what’s happening)
- Severe anxiety or panic
These symptoms can last from hours to days, depending on the person.
Who is Most at Risk?
Not everyone who uses marijuana will experience psychosis, but certain people are more at risk:
- Those with a family history of mental illness (like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder)
- Young people whose brains are still developing
- Frequent marijuana users, especially those using high-THC products
Treatment and Prevention
If someone experiences psychosis after using marijuana, it’s important to seek help right away. Treatment usually involves:
- Stopping marijuana use
- Medications to manage symptoms
- Therapy to understand the experience and develop coping strategies
- Support from loved ones
The best way to avoid marijuana-induced psychosis is to not use marijuana, especially for those at higher risk. If you struggle with marijuana use, getting help from a professional is key.
Marijuana can cause psychosis in some people, especially with frequent use or if there’s a family history of mental illness. If psychosis occurs, it’s important to seek medical help and stop using marijuana. Understanding the risks can help people make informed choices about marijuana use and protect their mental health. At Northview Wellness, we’re here to help. Contact us if you or a loved one would like to learn more or need help to address marijuana use.
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