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Cannabis usage has become widespread around the world, especially among people who use it for varied reasons like pleasure and self-medication. However, it may not be safe to be used as it could worsen mental health.
Understanding Cannabis-Induced Psychosis
Tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, is the main psychoactive compound found in marijuana that incites psychotic episodes in susceptible individuals. Hallucinations, delusions, paranoia, and other noticeable alterations in perceptions and reality may characterize these psychotic episodes.
Cannabis-induced psychosis events are rare but may develop after heavy use of cannabis, with a great effect on mental health problems and naive users. Sometimes, there can be merely a couple of hours of psychosis, but other occurrences can linger for far longer.
Symptoms of Cannabis-Induced Psychosis
Signs of THC-induced psychosis can vary considerably from individual to individual, but there are some general signs, such as the following:
- Hallucinations. An individual can experience visual and auditory hallucinations, which are characterized by hearing voices or seeing things that do not exist.
- Cannabis-Induced Delusions. This is characterized by unshakable belief in something that is not true, even in the face of overwhelming evidence against it. For example, they might think that they are being pursued or that they possess superhuman powers.
- Paranoia. This symptom involves extreme distrust or fear of others, even in situations where there is no real threat.
- Disorganized Thinking. They may be unclear in their thought patterns or confused when talking or in discourse with people.
- Mood Changes. Changes in mood come very suddenly. They could become very happy, and euphoric, and a very short time later, they are anxious and depressed.
Risk Factors for Cannabis-Induced Psychosis
Encountering cannabis-induced psychosis is not inevitable for every consumer, but potential causes may include.
Genetics
One of the most significant relates to the familial history of developing mental health disorders, especially those related to psychosis or schizophrenia.
Age
Young people, especially those under the age of 25, are at high risk of developing a first episode of cannabis-induced psychosis. The continued development of the brain during these years may also be disrupted by the use of cannabis.
Heavy Cannabis Use
The more cannabis one consumes, particularly from those high-THC strains, can increase the chances that a person could have a psychotic episode.
Preexisting Mental Health Conditions
Mental health conditions such as anxiety or depression further predispose individuals to develop psychosis.
Understanding these risk factors can help individuals make more informed decisions about cannabis use and avoid potential negative consequences.
How Long Does Cannabis-Induced Psychosis Last?
The duration of cannabis-induced psychosis can depend on how much cannabis has been taken and what mental state or preexisting conditions the individual has:
Short-Term Episodes
Most people recover from THC-induced psychosis in a short period. Their hallucinations and weed-induced delusions occur for a couple of hours to several days. Once the THC leaves the body, these symptoms diminish in most cases.
Long-Term Effects
There are cases when symptoms may last for long periods. Suppose a psychotic episode is due to various factors and may be significant. In that case, it may even last for a longer time in a person with an underlying mental health-related ailment. Cases exist where people have continued to have symptoms much longer, even after the first psychotic episode, and even go on to develop a diagnosis of schizoaffective disorder with cannabis use.
Recovery And Treatment
No two individuals may follow an identical path during their recovery. For most individuals, their recovery from any lasting effects of cannabis will fully take between a few days to a few weeks, depending on treatments and detox. However, severe, repeated cases might require extensive treatment.
Seeking Treatment for Cannabis-Induced Psychosis
If you or someone you care for experience a cannabis-induced psychosis, it is essential to contact a professional. Treatment options for cannabis-induced psychosis or another form of THC-induced psychosis include:
- Hospitalization. In cases where the psychosis is severe, hospitalization may be necessary to ensure the safety and well-being of the individual.
- Medication. Antipsychotic medicines can manage the symptoms of hallucinations and delusions.
- Therapy. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and other psychotherapy interventions can be effective for treating underlying causes of psychosis and preventing future episodes.
- Support Groups. Peer support and counseling can be invaluable. They will allow the patient to talk about their experiences, learn from others what coping strategies work for them, learn the names of their experiences, and know other ways to express them.
It is equally important to note that psychotic episodes triggered by cannabis can be treated. Recovery and reintegration into actual life are possibilities with the proper modality.
So, Is Marijuana-Induced Psychosis Permanent?
Cannabis-induced psychosis is almost always temporary. When individuals stop smoking pot, the great majority of those who have undergone an episode of psychosis no longer have it.
However, caution is in order. Repeated or heavy use of cannabis can increase the risk of “sticking” with more severe and lengthier conditions of mental health classes, the most “notorious” of these being cannabis-induced schizophrenia.
Most often, consequences tend to be enduring, more so in cases of an underlying vulnerability toward severe mental health disorders. Thus, early action is necessary.
Find Effective, Evidence-Based Treatment for Marijuana Addiction in the Relay Program
If you come across anyone suffering from psychosis brought on by cannabis, then work with them to follow the right solution. Evidence-based services for mental health recovery, as well as cannabis abuse treatment programs, are provided by experts and there are programs available for all kinds of challenges.
FAQs
- What is cannabis-induced psychosis?
Cannabis-induced psychosis refers to a temporary condition where a person experiences symptoms like hallucinations, delusions, and paranoia as a result of consuming cannabis, especially high-THC strains.
- How can I tell if I’m experiencing THC-induced psychosis?
Symptoms of THC-induced psychosis include intense paranoia, delusions, hallucinations, and confusion. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to stop using cannabis and seek medical help immediately.
- Can cannabis-induced psychosis lead to permanent mental health issues?
While cannabis-related psychosis is typically temporary, frequent use of high-THC cannabis can increase the risk of developing long-term mental health conditions, such as cannabis-induced schizophrenia.
- How long does it take to recover from cannabis-induced psychosis?
The duration of cannabis psychosis can vary, but most people recover within a few days to a few weeks once they stop using cannabis and receive proper treatment.
- Is treatment available for cannabis-induced psychosis?
Yes, cannabis psychosis is treatable. Treatment options may include hospitalization, medication, therapy, and support groups. Seeking professional help is key to recovery.
